Southend United youngster Merrick James-Lewis has signed his first professional contract at Roots Hall today.

Midfielder James-Lewis has this afternoon put pen-to-paper on a two-year professional deal.

The 18-year-old product of the Blues youth system had originally been offered a development contract.

However, after impressing boss Paul Sturrock, James-Lewis was swiftly handed a professional deal.

The former Fulham apprentice has been involved with the first team this season during pre-season and was a second half substitute for the reserve side on Wednesday.