SOUTHEND have signed defender Gus Scott-Morriss from Hemel Hempstead Town for an undisclosed fee.

Scott-Morriss has become the fourth addition to Kevin Maher’s squad this summer after the defender agreed to a two-year deal with an option for a further year, which is up to the club.

The right-back joined the Tudors from Royston Town in 2021 and made more than 40 appearances for Hemel last season.

Head coach Kevin Maher said: “We’ve kept an eye on Gus for a long period of time. I’ve watched him myself, Daz, Benno and John have too.

“He’s 25 so comes full of energy, will get up and down the pitch non-stop and he’s desperate to do well. Jason has done brilliantly for us and Gus adds the competition in that area that we wanted.

“He’s looking to grab the opportunity that he’s been given and he has the potential to do that. You can see that already in him.

“He’s been a captain at times for Hemel, as has Harry [Taylor] at Barnet, so there is good leadership skills throughout all the signings.

“It’s a big move for him to come to a club like this but he’s ready and he’s desperate to do well.”

Stepping into the full-time game for the first time, Scott-Morriss has revealed his joy at making the step up.

“I’m absolutely delighted, I’m buzzing with it,” he said.

“I’ve been looking forward to it all summer, trying to get it over the line and it’s finally happened so I can’t wait to get started really.

“We had chats early doors when the season finished and it dragged on a little bit but I’m glad it’s done now.

“I’ve always wanted to go into full time football and never had the opportunity. To be honest, I thought my time had gone.

“Southend being one of the biggest clubs in the National it was a bit of a no brainer really.

“Not only am I a full-time footballer now, but again the club itself is a massive club. It shouldn’t be where it is and to get an opportunity like this, I just can’t wait!”

Scott-Morriss will wear the number two shirt next season.

This is the second signing in quick succession as Scott-Morriss quickly followed the announcement of former Barnet man Harry Taylor.