SOUTHEND United new-boy Keenan Appiah-Forson is keen to help the Shrimpers push forward this season.

The attacking midfielder has signed a two year deal at Roots Hall.

And the 22-year-old is determined to make the most of his opportunity.

“It’s a big club, the fans are great and I know the gaffer likes to play good football too so it’s a club that really attracted me,” said Appiah-Forson.

“Even when I was training here before signing I really enjoyed myself and it’s somewhere I want to be.

“Hopefully I can help push the team forward.”

Appiah-Forson arrives at the Shrimpers following his release from West Ham United where he been for the past eight years.

And he was helped throughout pre-season by the Professional Footballers Association who put on training sessions and friendlies for players without a club.

“It was in Leicestershire and they put on games,” said Appiah-Forson.

“I played in one against United 21s but I was a free agent and I got a call from the gaffer when I was with the PFA.

“He called me to come down, train and see if I liked it because they wanted to sign me.

“I did two sessions and after the second one I agreed to sign.”

But Appiah-Forson is no stranger to the National League having lined up at this level while on loan for Dagenham & Redbridge last season.

“I really enjoyed my time at Dagenham,” said Appiah-Forson, who scored once in 27 appearances for Daggers.

“I played week in, week out from December time and enjoyed playing in this league.

“It’s very competitive and I’ve got that experience now so I want to push on.”

And Appiah-Forson is keen to feature regularly for Blues.

“I want as many games as possible,” said the midfielder.

“I was playing 21s a lot at West Ham and managed to get two appearances for the first team but I want to be playing regular first team football and see what happens.”

And Appiah-Forson is keen to make a big impression, starting with a possible debut at Oldham Athletic this weekend.

“Hopefully I can make my mark either if I’m starting or off the bench,” said Appiah-Forson.

“I’m ready to take my opportunity.

“I hope to contribute goals and assists and as a team we want to try and make the play-offs this season.”