What can Southend United expect from new boy Callum Powell?

How would you describe Callum’s time at Kettering and what moments stick out?

"Callum signed for Kettering last season and there were plenty of signs of what he was capable of, so much so that the club were fairly quick to put him on a contract.

"Obviously, that campaign at Step 2 was cut short by the Covid-19 pandemic but it’s this season where he really flourished.

"Certainly in the first couple of months of the campaign, he was pretty much unplayable at times and scored both goals in an early 2-0 win at Gloucester City.

"I think his best game this season was in the 1-1 draw with AFC Fylde - one of the National League North title favourites - where he ran a very good side ragged.

"His form dipped slightly during a tricky period for Kettering but, just recently he has been flying again with two goals in the recent 3-0 victory over Curzon Ashton.

"He’s scored 14 goals in all competitions this season, an outstanding return."

On board - Callum Powell has joined Southend United Picture: GRAHAM WHITBY BOOT/SUFC

What kind of forward would you say he is and what can Southend fans expect from him?

"When he first signed, it was primarily as a winger which is where I think he has played most of his career.

"This season, he has played as one of the wide players in a three-pronged attack but also as a striker in a two up front and hasn’t looked out of place at all in that role.

"He’s lightning quick, he has a bag full of tricks and he’s an entertainer.

"When things come off, it delights the crowd and, because of that, he is forgiven when things might not come off the way he intended.

"It’s fair to say his performances have made him a real favourite with the fans at Latimer Park and there’s no reason why that shouldn’t be the same at Roots Hall."

How do you feel he will cope with the step up to the National League?

"It’s probably a bit difficult for me to say, given I haven’t watched a huge amount of National League football this season.

"But I have seen enough from him to suggest it won’t be a problem.

"I firmly believe he’s too good to be at Step 2 and he is a confident lad who will certainly back himself to flourish at the higher level.

"And remember, he’s no stranger to the National League having previously been at Wrexham.

"He knows full well what he is getting himself into and I am sure he will have no fear about showing what he can do."

READ MORE: Kevin Maher certain Callum Powell will be a fans favourite at Roots Hall