Nikolay Zlatev is a first-year forward.

Danny Heath: "Nikolay is a centre-forward that leads the line effectively. In possession Nikolay shows good movement off the ball, and he is very clinical in front of goal. He scores a high percentage of chances. Alongside this Nikolay also has excellent receiving and ball protection skills to allow him to link up the play with his team mates to sustain attacks in the final third of the pitch. Out of possession Nikolay does not allow any time for the opposition to be comfortable in possession; - he presses with relentless commitment with both speed and controlled aggression, and he embraces the physical contact side of the game. Nikolay is also a part of the player leadership group of which he does and will continue to ensure that the team are maintaining high standards of professionalism both on and off the pitch.  

Nikolay: "My journey so far at Southend has been a very exciting experience. I am delighted to be here and showcase my ability against other academies. I have previously played for Hullbridge and for the Essex County and I am now looking forward to progressing here and hopefully winning many trophies with our group of lads as well as pushing to the first team and showing what I am capable of."