SOUTHEND United manager Phil Brown believes Charlie Sayers is destined for a bright future in football.

The 17-year-old left-back has started the last two games for the Shrimpers.

And Brown has been impressed by the defender’s displays.

“I think Charlie Sayers has been outstanding and you have to say he has a career ahead of him, there’s no doubt about it,” said Brown.

“He’s got two games under his belt now but is he going to make mistakes as a 17-year-old boy? Absolutely.

“But on Tuesday he had a team on Tuesday that was protecting him.”

And Brown is enjoying being able to call upon the youngster.

“Charlie has set a great example of what this club has been about for the last 10 years and that’s decent young players,” said Brown.

“I’ve not always had the benefit of that because we’ve always sold them on but where Charlie is concerned his dad looks after him which is a great shout.

“He hasn’t got an agent which is also a great shout so all he’s got is the manager’s voice in his ear and hopefully he’s here for a long time.”