Simeon Akinola joined Southend United in September but was unable to play due to the club’s embargo, restricting the striker to not feature for the Blues. However, since his first start in December, the striker has played every game.
Previously at Barnet FC, the striker has returned to play in the Football League for the first time since the 2017/18 season and is loving life so far at his new club.
“It’s been really enjoyable. Thankfully the team has been playing well when I’ve come in and hopefully, we can stay in this direction.”
The Blues faced an embargo as the club owed money to HMRC. This prevented Akinola and his teammate, Sam Hart, officially registering and playing for Southend. Though, the striker was determined to stay motivated while he awaited his first appearance.
“It was a tough time not playing for those couple months.
“Having Sam Hart, who was in the same boat as me, helped because we pushed each other in training.
“The gaffer and all the members of staff were incredibly encouraging and that really helped us mentally.”
Once the embargo was eventually lifted, Akinola started against Scunthorpe United. The Blues came out on top, winning only their second game of the season. That was his first game since July, featuring for 62 minutes.
“I was buzzing to have the opportunity to play and help the boys on the pitch.
“It was a sense of relieve to finally step on the grass, made even better by the fact that our fans were allowed in.”
Since his first start, the club have won four games and drew one, which is their best form for over two seasons.
“The spirits are high, but we know we haven’t achieved anything. We’ve laid the foundations for the work ahead.
“In truth, the spirits were never too low because we’ve got quality and experience in the dressing room.”
On Boxing Day, starting his third game, Akinola scored a header to help Southend beat Colchester United 2-0. The goal was the perfect Christmas present for the 28-year-old.
“It was a special one, especially because it was in the Essex derby. Hopefully it’s the first of many!”
The Blues initially had seven games to play in a busy January, but one postponement and a win against Barrow means only five games remain.
“The main thing is to stay fit and trust the process the manager has been implementing. We need to focus on ourselves and the results will take care of themselves.
Despite never playing for Mark Moseley, Akinola has not had a problem understanding and fitting into the manager’s game plans.
“I’m finding no issues adapting to his tactics. In a way he is really similar to the way I played with Danny Cowley, so it’s been quite easy to adapt.
“Playing for Cowley was some of my best football. I always look back fondly at my time under him and I’m not surprised at the success he’s had recently.”