SOUTHEND United manager Chris Powell has hailed Michael Klass’ part in Saturday’s 3-3 draw with Portsmouth.

Klass came off the bench to replace the injured Stephen Humphrys midway through the first half at Roots Hall.

And Powell was pleased with how the young midfielder got to grips with the game.

“At 3-0 I felt we needed to try and get control of the game more,” said Powell.

“We brought Michael Klass on and to be fair to him he was very brave on the ball.

“He made us pass more and I felt we gradually got more control from there.”

Klass will now be pushing for a start when the Shrimpers head to Accrington Stanley for another important League One clash this weekend.

And Powell is confident Klass will continue to make the most of any opportunity coming his way.

“Michael has had to be patient because he’s been in and out of the squad like what happens with all young players but he’s been involved lately and I have every confidence in him and all of our players,” said Powell.

“It was a good cameo from him at Charlton and he nearly scored twice after coming on.

“He got himself a start at Doncaster before coming off the bench early on against Portsmouth.

“But he’s a good player and I have no worries putting him in.

“There was a bit of talk about him going out on loan in January but I wanted him to stay.”

Klass could well start this weekend after winger Michael Kightly suffered a groin problem during Saturday’s draw with Portsmouth.

Blues boss Powell has yet to discover the seriousness of the injury.

But, with Dru Yearwood still suspended, Klass is pushing hard for a recall.

Klass, who joined the Shrimpers after being released by Queens Park Rangers, has now made 11 first team appearances this season.

The 20-year-old midfielder also appeared twice in the Checkatrade Trophy last term.