Worthing have completed the signing of forward Charley Kendall from Southend United for an undisclosed fee. The 25-year-old departs the National League side after making 55 league appearances and scoring 13 goals since his arrival in late 2024.
Southend currently sit third in the National League table with 13 points from six games, their recent form reading WDLWW. They have scored 12 goals and conceded eight this season, leaving them three points behind leaders Boreham Wood in the early title race.
Charley Kendall was a part of the Southend United squad that won the FA Trophy last season. He played a significant role in that cup run, scoring twice in the semi-final before featuring in the final victory over Wealdstone, which was secured via a penalty shootout. His contributions over 55 National League games made him a known quantity in the fifth tier.
His goal record of 13 in those matches demonstrated a consistent threat. Manager Adam Hinshelwood, who has now brought him to Worthing, highlighted those qualities. "Charley is a real threat with his pace in behind and has that all-important National League experience which we want to keep adding to the group," Hinshelwood said.
Kendall's departure creates an opening in the attacking ranks for a Southend side that has started the season strongly. The club's current squad list will need adjusting as they aim to maintain their positive early form. With 12 goals scored already, the attacking unit has been productive, but manager Kevin Maher may now consider his options in the forward line.
The team's next challenge is to close the three-point gap to the top, and their upcoming fixtures will test their depth. Losing a player with Kendall's specific experience in the division is a notable change to the group that lifted the FA Trophy just months ago.
Worthing manager Adam Hinshelwood was clear about what attracted him to the forward. He valued Kendall's proven record at National League level and his direct style of play. In his comments, Hinshelwood also pointed to the player's goal-scoring history as a major asset for his new team.
"His goal record speaks for itself and everyone is excited to have him through the door and see him represent our club," Hinshelwood stated. The move reunites the player with a manager who clearly values his attributes, suggesting Kendall will have a prominent role at his new club.
For Southend, the focus remains on their league campaign. They are well-placed in the standings and will look to continue their form despite this squad alteration. The club has built a competitive squad capable of challenging at the top, as evidenced by their current position and trophy success.
The immediate task is preparing for the next match, with the team looking to convert their strong early-season statistics into sustained pressure on the leaders. Southend United's next fixture is a home game against Dagenham & Redbridge on September 13th.
