Southend United have handed professional contracts to four academy graduates as the Shrimpers push for a top-six finish in the National League. Strikers Nikolay Zlatev and Jack Stone, goalkeeper Joshua Barrett and left-back Mitch Ward all put pen to paper on new deals at Roots Hall.

What happened?

The quartet’s contracts were confirmed on Tuesday, marking a key step in their development under first-team boss Danny Heath. Ward, who spent last season on loan at Basildon United, called the moment “everything I’ve ever worked for.” Zlatev, who scored 22 goals for the under-19s last term, added: “To finally put pen to paper is unreal.”

Why it matters for Southend

The signings come as Southend sit 6th in the National League with 81 points from 46 games, 27 points behind leaders York. Their recent form has been mixed—last result was a 0-0 draw at Wealdstone on May 17—and the new deals give Heath extra options in the first-team picture. Barrett, who impressed in the FA Youth Cup run to the fourth round, said training with the senior squad has already sharpened his game.

Stone, who signed his first pro deal last summer, spent time on loan at Grays and AFC Sudbury. He said stepping up to step-three football forced him to grow. “Playing against men at a young age is always going to help,” he said.

What comes next?

All four will now train with the first team as Southend chase a play-off spot. Heath’s side has scored 83 goals but conceded 47, leaving them 36 clear at the top. With recent form reading DDLLW, the gaffer will need these youngsters to kick on quickly if they’re to close the gap to York.

Player reactions

Ward: “If I can get minutes in the 23s, hopefully the gaffer sees me there and I can work my way into the first team.” Zlatev: “Being around the boys in the first team will take my game to another level.” Barrett: “I want to soak in the professional environment.” Stone: “I feel like I thrived in that step-three environment.” Southend United sit 6th in the National League with 81 points from 46 games and a +36 goal difference.