Southend snap up Chelsea's Grant

Southend United have completed the signing of Chelsea midfielder Anthony Grant on a free transfer.

The 21-year-old has put pen to paper on a two-year contract at Roots Hall.

Grant enjoyed a loan spell with the Shrimpers last season and boss Steve Tilson said that was a key factor in the deal.

Tilson told BBC Essex: "We know what he's about because he was with us last year, so we're not getting anyone we don't know. I think that's important."

Tilson said Grant's versatility was an added attraction: "He can play right-back, right midfield or centre midfield, which is probably his best position.

"But he is quite versatile and with a small squad that's a big thing for us."

Grant started his career at Chelsea as a trainee and made his Blues debut in May 2005 against Manchester United.

He has also had loan spells with Wycombe, Oldham and Luton.