Southend manager Steve Tilson has backed Freddy Eastwood to reproduce his club goalscoring form on the international stage after the striker was called up to the Wales squad for the first time.

Eastwood, who is currently struggling with a back injury, is set to make his international debut in a friendly against New Zealand on May 26 at the Millennium Stadium.

And the 23-year-old, who has scored 16 times so far for the Shrimpers this season, could then make his competitive debut in the Euro 2008 qualifier at home to the Czech Republic seven days later.

Tilson told the club's official website: "It's obviously an honour for Freddy to be involved on the international stage.

"Over the past three seasons he has been fantastic for Southend and I'm sure he can do well for Wales also."

Eastwood joined Southend from Grays in 2004 but only received clearance to play for Wales last month, qualifying through his grandfather.