New Southend United midfielder Russell Williamson has spoken of his relief at being given a chance to shine at Roots Hall.

The 20-year-old schemer was released by First Division Wimbledon during the summer after more than a decade with the Crazy Gang, which was a major disappointment.

However, Williamson, who was born in Epping and made his Shrimpers debut during Saturday's 3-1 home win over Macclesfield Town, is hoping to put his Dons rejection behind him.

"I was surprised that Southend snapped me up so quickly, but it is great to be here," said the central midfielder. "I've had a busy summer. I'd been with Wimbledon since I was nine-and-a-half and it was a huge disappointment to be released.

"But I was always determined to find another club and I sent out loads of letters and faxes to various teams. I had a two week trial with Clyde in Scotland and I thought I'd done well, but they never offered me another week.

"However, I kept my head down and continued writing letters, which Southend boss David Webb answered. He got me down to Roots Hall to play in a reserve game at Wycombe last week.

"I did alright and scored a goal and he signed me on a non-contract basis so I could play against Macclesfield, which was my League debut.

"It was a relief to finally play a first-team game and now I want to concentrate all my efforts into helping Southend get back into the Second Division."

At 5ft 4ins tall, Williamson is one of the smallest players to ever pull on a Shrimpers shirt, but he doesn't believe his height will be a disadvantage among the rough and tumble of the Third Division.

"I may not be the biggest, but I'm certainly not afraid to get my foot in - I'm not scared of the larger players," said Williamson, who lives in Waltham Abbey and is set to sign a contract until the end of the season this week.

"I also like to think that I have other attributes which compensate for my lack of height. My pace is one of my biggest assets and I'm quite skilful on the ball. "I'm confident I can crack it in the Third Division with Southend."

Meanwhile, Blues were expected to field two trialists in their reserve match against Oxford United at Roots Hall today (Tuesday), kick-off 2pm.

Goalkeeper Chris Porter and Cambridge City striker Tes Bramble, the brother of Ipswich Town defender Titus, should guest for the Shrimpers.

Chance to shine - for midfielder Russell Williamson

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