Southend United striker Chris Wreh makes most of his recall

Wreh and Powell both scored in Blues’ 3-0 win at Maidstone United on Tuesday night.

And Wreh, who lined up alongside Powell in the youth team at Northampton Town, was pleased the duo could help Kevin Maher’s side pick up all three points at the Gallagher Stadium.

“Callum and I have always linked up well,” said Wreh, 26.

“We played together when we were 12 or 13 up until 16 when we went separate ways but always kept in touch.

“We know what we’re going to do and I enjoy playing with him.

“You always just give him the ball and he’d do something magical and not pass to you”

“He will hate me for that but he’s a really good player and he’s doing well.

“I reckon he will easily hit 15 goals if not 20 and the partnership is there.”

Wreh netted the Shrimpers’ third goal in their second successive 3-0 victory.

And the striker, who had been on the bench for the previous 10 games, was determined to make the most of his recall.

“I’m very pleased,” said Wreh.

“It’s been a while since I’ve started so I was always grateful for the opportunity.

“I wanted to try my best to make the most it.

“It was about coming in and keeping up with the standard which I felt I did.

“I found out after training on Monday so it was about getting my head round that and preparing properly after that.

“I wanted to try and make an impact and I got a goal and an assist so I’m happy with that.”

Wreh fired home his third goal of the season in the second half but stayed cool and composed after the ball hit the back of the net.

“I did think I was offside at the beginning,” explained Wreh.

“When I was looking over I don’t know what everyone was doing so I had no-one to celebrate with so I just stood there but it was a good night and I’m happy.”

But Wreh now wants to be able to build on his performance.

“I came here to play and compete,” said Wreh.

“The competition is very high but the manager, the staff and everyone has put a lot of trust in me.

"I’ve played quite a lot of games but hopefully I can keep on playing and prove my worth.

“I didn’t come here to make up the numbers.”

And that determination also saw Wreh working hard in training while out of the side.

“I hadn’t started since Eastleigh I don’t think so that’s two months,” said Wreh.

“I’ve kept ticking over in training, doing extras and things like that and trying to implement as many game realistic drills that you can to make sure you’re ready.

"You have to stay patient and then take your opportunity when you get it.”

Wreh will now be looking to do that against York City this weekend and insists he will be fit enough to feature despite appearing to be limping in the latter stages of Tuesday night’s game.

“I got kicked a few times which is part of the game and then I got cramp as well but I’m alright,” he added.

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