SOUTHEND United manager Sol Campbell heaped praise on Richard Taylor after handing the defender his debut against AFC Wimbledon.

The 19-year-old played the full 90 minutes as Blues triumphed 3-1 at Roots Hall in the Leasing.com Trophy.

And Campbell was impressed by the youngster's performance. 

"Richard Taylor was excellent," said Campbell.

"He was really good on the ball and he will only get better.

"There are things to work on but that will come the more he plays.

"Coming forward he passed the ball well, he looked comfortable and got some really good defensive headers away.

"It was a really good debut, he should be happy with that."