Pardew reveals Eastwood ‘hurt’

ALAN PARDEW admits it “hurts” to see former West Ham trainee Freddy Eastwood banging in the goals for Southend.

The 23-year-old was released by the east London club just before Pardew took charge at Upton Park.

Having then plied his trade at non-league Grays Athletic before a move to Roots Hall, Eastwood is now one of the hottest young prospects in the Coca-Cola Championship – having blasted in a stunning free-kick to knock holders Manchester United out of the Carling Cup earlier this week.

Although the Shrimpers want to hold onto their prized asset, several Premiership clubs are believed to be chasing in his signature.

Pardew has been suitably impressed.

“I have sent many scouts to look at him and the reports come back to suggest that he has a very good chance,” said Pardew, who took over in late October 2003.