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.
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