STEPHEN Humphrys is hoping a switch to Southend United will help him find his identity.

The striker has now sealed a switch to the Shrimpers from Fulham, signing a two and a half year deal at Roots Hall.

And Humphrys is keen for the move to kick start his career.

“I’m delighted,” said Humphrys.

“It’s a big step in my career. I’m pleased to have got it over the line and can’t wait to get started.

“It’s a permanent move, it’s not a loan, so I’m joining a club that I can hopefully find a real identity at.

“It’s a big club with a really good fanbase and I want to feel as much involved in the club and do as well as I can here as possible.”

Humphreys, who came through the youth ranks at Fulham, has spent time out on loan with Shrewsbury Town, Rochdale and Scunthorpe United.

And the 21-year-old feels that experience will help him shine for the Shrimpers.

“It’s not like I’m coming into a League where I don’t have any experience,” said Humphrys.

“I started off well at Scunthorpe and went through a phase where I scored three in five and then unfortunately it didn’t work out.

“But everything happens for a reason and in a way I’m delighted it did work out like that because I’ve ended up here and I’m happy to be here.

“I’ve still got a lot to learn; I think everyone’s got a lot to learn and being so young this is a great opportunity to learn my trade at a big club.

“The manager has told me what he wants from me and we agreed that this would be the best club to get the best out of me."