CHRIS Powell is helping to expand Southend United’s connection within the England squad at the World Cup.

Impressive Three Lions midfielder Jude Bellingham is the son of Shrimpers supporter Mark who regularly watched Powell in action at Roots Hall.

And Powell has spoken about Blues to both members of the Bellingham family!

“I always see his dad and Jude always jokes about him not to bow at my feet!,” laughed Powell.

“I believe his dad was a regular on the terraces back in the 90s and I gave some of my kit from when I was manager to Jude.

“He speaks fondly about Southend past and present and we’ve spoken about Kev Maher and that it’s going the way we want it to now.”

And Powell is also still in communication with Maher.

“I sent Kev a few text messages a couple of weeks ago to tell him how proud I was of him and how the team are now showing everyone they should be in that top seven,” said Powell.

“Of course it’s not easy, there’s pressure on and it’s a well supported club home and away.

“I haven’t managed to get to a Southend game yet this season but I’m hoping I will do.

“I don’t live too far from Dorking so hopefully I’ll get to that one but it’s good to see doing them.

“I know they lost at Aldershot and Gateshead but hopefully it’s just a small blip.

“I look at all the games so I knew it was Altrincham on Saturday.”

However, Powell’s main focus is obviously on the World Cup.

And the England assistant coach insists the squad are starting to sense the support coming their way from back home.

“Even in Qatar you can feel how it’s beginning to build back in England,” said Powell.

“The country always gets behind the national team when it comes to tournament football and we will be doing our best to stay out here for another 17 days.”

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