Tilson ready for Eastwood fight

Southend boss Steve Tilson accepts the club face a fight to keep hold of Freddy Eastwood.

Eastwood raised his stock with a superb goal in Tuesday's memorable Carling Cup victory over Manchester United.

The 24-year-old has attracted the interest of a host of clubs following his goalscoring exploits at Roots Hall over the last two years and Tilson knows clubs are sure to come calling for the strike when the transfer window reopens in January.

"Top clubs have been watching Freddy all year and I don't think that will change now," said Tilson.

"We will see what happens in January but we can certainly put the price up now.

"His goalscoring record is second to none and, while I am not saying the chairman will sell him, there is no way anyone will get away with making a silly offer."