SOUTHEND United defender Ollie Kensdale will make his 100th appearance for the Shrimpers when they host Aldershot at Roots Hall on Saturday.

The 23-year-old has started every match for Blues this season.

And the defender revealed a number of people have played a big part in helping him carve out a career in professional football.

“I’ve had a few,” said Kensdale.

“My dad would always say to me that I had to get to the level he played at.

“He spurred me on a lot when I was younger.

“He played at Step Three and when I got there he did say he only said it to spur me on but it definitely did!”

Kensdale came through the youth system at Colchester United.

And while with the U’s he was supported by former Blues defender Luke Prosser.

“When I went into the full time environment someone who helped me massively was Luke Prosser,” said Kensdale.

“When I was at Colchester he took me under his wing and was a massive influence on me.

“I wasn’t playing that much but when I was training he was helping me out a lot.”

Kensdale made six appearances for the U’s before his departure in 2021 which ultimately led to him lining up for Concord Rangers.

The defender was quickly spotted by the Shrimpers and has now become a key player for the club, thanks to the support from those around him.

“Ever since I’ve come here all the staff members have been massive,” said Kensdale.

“Having the relationship with skip (Nathan Ralph) has been really good as well.

“I car school with him so he’s helped me through a lot of situations.”

But Kensdale is also benefitting from another experienced member of Blues’ squad.

“Someone who people might not think of is Dave Martin,” said the centre-back.

“He’s a massive influence on the whole squad but especially us as a back line.

“He works with us and Col (Andeng Ndi).

“It’s a youngish backline.

“I know skip’s a bit older but I’m youngish and H (Harry Taylor) hasn’t been playing there long.

“Dave is massive for us and to learn from someone who has played in the Premier League is massive.

“There are little things he says that you probably wouldn’t ever think of.

“But it’s that one of two per cent that adds up and makes a difference.”