Garry Cross and Yemi Abiodun, two of Southend United's brightest young stars, are set to land improved deals with the Third Division club.

Shrimpers boss Alan Little has decided to extend the 18-year-old duo's contracts at Roots Hall by another two-years following a string of impressive pre-season friendly performances for Blues' first team.

Composed right-back Cross and pacey striker Abiodun, currently on 12 month deals, have only just turned professional at Southend, but Little has seen enough to commit himself to their long term futures.

"Garry and Yemi have looked good in our pre-season build-up and I believe they both have exciting careers ahead of them," said Little.

"But the most important thing about the two of them is that they are willing to listen and learn, which will help them develop into even better players."

Little admitted he wouldn't hesitate to throw either of his Blues babes into the first team firing-line if he had to, when the real action gets underway against Plymouth Argyle on Saturday, August 7.

"I'm a big believer of the saying 'if you're good enough you're old enough' and I wouldn't have a problem putting either of these lads in my first team," added Little.

"They are still raw, but they will get better, and so far they have done enough to suggest they can live with the big boys.

"This summer they've played alongside seasoned professionals against both league and non-league opposition, and neither of them have looked out of place.

"Garry is very eager about his football and has a lot of ability as a defender who is comfortable on the ball.

"He isn't afraid of the physical side of the game either as Garry showed in our friendly against Colchester, when he received a few knocks but got straight back on his feet again.

"As for Yemi he has bags of pace and skill, a quality most clubs are looking for in their players, and he will terrorise defences this season when he gets his chance, which I'm sure he will."

Little said it was important that people see Southend, whose record of producing players in recent years has been miserable, as a club which will always give youth a chance to shine.

"We need to breed our own players and youngsters will always get the chance to make the grade at Roots Hall," he said.

"It's vital for a club like Southend to have a steady production line of new talent and we must make sure we always attract the best young players to our club.

"If families know their children will get a fair crack of the whip at Roots Hall then they will send their kids here to become footballers.

"Youth is so important and holds the key to our future - let's hope there's more where Garry and Yemi came from."

Double delight - Blues hopefuls Garry Cross (left) and Yemi Abiodun, who have looked promising in warm-up games, are jubilant after attracting better contracts ahead of a vital season for their progress in the Third Division

Picture: MAXINE CLARKE

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