SOUTHEND United new boy Glen Kamara is keen to repay the Shrimpers for the support they showed him at the start of his career.

The midfielder, who has joined Blues on loan from Arsenal until the end of the season, was with Southend as a youth team player.

And he is now determined to help the Shrimpers succeed.

“I really do owe Southend so much because they helped me push through right at the start of my career and helped to push me higher too,” said Kamara.

“Being with Southend helped get me to Arsenal but now coming back is a great opportunity for me and I’m pleased I’ve got the chance to be able to help the club now.”

Kamara, who played for Blues in the under 15s, trained with Phil Brown’s squad for the first time this afternoon.

But he admitted it felt a little strange being back at his former base.

"It’s a bit weird coming back because I haven’t been here for about four years now,” said Kamara.

“At the same time it’s nice to come back because I have good memories here and it certainly helps that I’m already familiar with the surroundings and know a few of the faces already.”

Kamara, who plays internationally for Finland, made his debut for the Gunners in a 3-0 Capital One Cup defeat at Sheffield Wednesday back in October.

But the 20-year-old is now looking forward to regularly being involved with first team football.

“I want to be playing games now because of my age,” said Kamara.

“I want to prove to everyone what I can do as well.”