SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher had praise for his trialists following Saturday’s pre-season friendly with Gillingham at Roots Hall.

Maher brought midfielder Rafferty Pedder and goalkeeper James Hillson off the bench during the second half of the 3-1 defeat at Roots Hall.

And Maher was pleased with how they both performed.

“Raff is someone who has been at QPR and he’s the type we’re looking for,” said Maher.

“It’s always difficult and as a trialist all you can do is use the minutes you get the best that you can.

“I’m pleased with both of them.”

Pedder has previously been with QPR and Tottenham Hotspur and made four appearances on loan for Oxford City last season.

Hillson has been on the books of both Reading and Arsenal and had a loan spell with Salisbury City during the 2018/19 season.

Ex Southampton defender Zuriel Otseh-Taiwo is also still on trial with the Shrimpers and played the final 11 minutes against Gillingham.