Callum Taylor: GK, Northern Ireland U16 international. Played a couple of times for the U23s last season and did well. Made his first-team debut as a late substitute against Coventry City in February when Mark Oxley was injured.
Reiss Chandler: Hardworking right-back who played four games on a work experience loan for Harlow Town after joining the Hawks in January.
Ben Dabbs: Another right-back, Dabbs was injured during the first month of the season. Capable of playing in a holding midfield or central defensive role, he offers versatility.
Sam Brogan: last season’s youth team captain, Brogan regularly featured for the U23s and joined Canvey Island on work experience terms in February, playing twice for Mark Bentley’s Gulls. An unselfish player, Brogan is a holding midfielder.
Freddy Eastwood: Probably the player who needs least introduction. Son of Blues legend Freddy, he is an attacking midfielder who can also perform in a wide midfield role. However, he is most influential through the middle, where he likes to get involved and has scored some spectacular goals.
Issa Mpenga: Forward who has been out for much of the season with a meniscus injury. Netted twice in five games before his enforced break from the game, showcasing his pace and power up front.
All the older Academy players who have been offered professional deals after playing in the U23s last season should be covered here:
https://www.southendunited.co.uk/teams/u23-team/