Enjoying his football - on loan Southend United defender James Golding
(Image: Lucy Copsey)
By Chris Phillips@cjphillips1982Chief sports reporter.
JAMES Golding will not need to look too far for inspiration as he strives to build on his impressive full debut for Southend United.
The centre-back, who is on loan at the Shrimpers from Oxford United, produced a fine performance at the heart of the back three to help Kevin Maher’s side beat Ebbsfleet 4-0 on Boxing Day.
But 20-year-old Golding is not the only member of his family bidding to break through into the senior ranks.
James’ 18-year-old brother Michael joined Leicester City from Chelsea in a deal believed to be around £4 million last summer while his 16-year-old brother Aidan is on the books of Brentford.
And Golding finds the support of his family hugely beneficial.
“Growing up we’d always play against each other and help each other too,” said the defender.
“Obviously now we’re living in different parts of the country but we speak a lot and support each other.
“It’s good to have people, especially your brothers, involved in the same industry and it definitely helps.”
James is currently leading the way in terms of first team appearances and is relishing adding to his tally while at Roots Hall.
“I’ve really been enjoying it,” said Golding.
“It’s a good club with a lot of good people.
“Hopefully I can keep playing now and keep on contributing to the team.”
Golding made his Southend debut as a late substitute in the 5-3 FA Trophy win over Brentwood Town at the start of December before being before handed his first start against Ebbsfleet.
And the defender relished his first taste of playing at Roots Hall.
“As a footballer you always want to play in front of fans,” said Golding.
“It’s what you dream of as a kid and to play in front of the fans at Roots Hall is a great feeling.
“Hopefully they’ll be many more to come as well.”
The convincing victory moved Blues 14th in the table and Golding was pleased with all aspects of the performance.
“As a defender you want to keep a clean sheet and I think everyone in the team stepped up,” said Golding.
“There might be bigger tests to come but we showed that when we play like that I don’t think we need to fear anyone in this league.”
The Shrimpers will now look to make it back to back wins when they head to Braintree Town on New Year’s Day.
And Golding’s main focus will again be on shutting out the opposition.
“First and foremost I’m a defender and that’s my main job,” said Golding.
“Where I can help the team in terms of possession I do like to try and contribute but I’m a defender at heart.
“Braintree will be a tough test but we just have to focus on what we can do and try to make sure we perform to the best of our ability.”
Golding will again be looking to help the Shrimpers triumph and admitted he would be happy to extend his loan spell.
“It’s a short term loan so I can’t 100 per cent tell you how long I’m going to be here but I’m loving it at the club and I’d be very happy to stay,” said Golding.
“I just want to play as many minutes as possible and play to the best of my ability to help the team.”
