French striker Francis Laurent has completed a free transfer move to Southend United this afternoon.

Francis has signed an intial one-year contract at the Blues, with further options available to the Blues.

And the former FSV Mainz 05 forward is hoping to live up to his 'Kanu like' billing by boss Steve Tilson.

"It's very flattering to be compared to Kanu," said Laurent speaking through a translator.

"Hopefully I can live up to that. The coaches are very good here at Southend and hopefully I can develop as a player with the squad.

"English football was always my favourite when I was growing up so I am looking forward to showing the fans what I can do."

Laurent, 22, impressed the management team whilst playing for Southend in a behind closed doors match against Fulham on Tuesday.

Frenchman Laurent scored United's third goal during the 4-2 win against the Cottagers and landed himself a move to League One with United.

"It was good for me and my confidence to score against Fulham. I am a striker and it is important for me to get goals," he said.

"I haven't had a proper pre-season with a squad but I have done a lot of running back home in France to keep fit so I don't believe that will prove too much of a problem.

"The language will be a barrier to start with but I am going to learn as quickly as possible.

"When I was out in Germany I managed to pick it up really quickly so hopefully that will be the case here."

The 6' 3" forward has also spent time with German club SV Eintracht Trier 05 and French sides Sochaux and Beauvais. Francis is available for Saturday's trip to Walsall.

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