A footballer’s former secondary school have expressed their congratulations following his signing to a Championship football club.

19-year-old Dru Yearwood has completed a four-year deal to play for Brentford FC, believed to be worth £500,000, which was announced on Monday, August 5.

The Harlow-born midfielder was a pupil at Roding Valley High School, on Alderton Hill, Loughton until completing his studies in 2016.

A spokesman from the school’s PE department, said: “Dru was a pupil at RVHS from 2011-2016 and was an outstanding all-round sportsman with particularly high success in Athletics and Football.

“He was very polite, happy and humble student. Dru's sights were set on football from and early age and his passion for success was clear to see.

“He was always motivated to take part in PE lessons as well as the school football team with an exceptional attitude.

“Huge congratulations from all at RVHS and we wish him all the success with his continued footballing career.”

Mr Yearwood began his football career at 11-years-old by joining the Southend United FC youth system where he then graduated to play professional for the squad in July 2017.

He made his debut early that season in the EFL Cup and his first league appearance came in September 2017.

In total the 19-year-old made 61 appearances for the Shrimpers over the course of two seasons.

The midfielder could potentially have his debut game for the Bees when they play Middlesbrough away on Saturday, August 10.

Mr Yearwood confirmed the news on his Twitter account, saying: “After eight years we move on to the next chapter, I would like to thank the players and coaches for all the help and advice over the years and also I would like to thank the fans for believing in me from day one! All the best Shrimpers!”

Thomas Frank, Brentford FC head coach, said: “Dru has the qualities we want in a midfield player at Brentford. “

He is very good at getting around the pitch and does the work we want in terms of pressing and winning the ball back.

“He is a young player and there will be more to come from him. Working with our coaches will help his development and I believe we will see that quickly.

“I want to welcome Dru to Brentford, he will be a great addition to our squad.”

Phil Giles, Brentford FC co-director of football, added: "We have been watching Dru develop over the past 12 months, and his playing record for a 19-year-old is impressive.

“With Romaine Sawyers moving on we had a space in the squad which we wanted to fill with someone who has a lot of potential, and we are pleased to have made this signing."