Phil Parkinson believes Will Atkinson can be a hit beside the seaside after joining Southend.

The energetic midfielder played 55 times for City last season, including all seven Capital One Cup ties, and Parkinson had not totally shut the door on the prospect of him coming back after his contract expired.

But Phil Brown, Atkinson’s former boss with Hull, has offered him a fresh start with a two-year deal at Roots Hall.

Parkinson said: “Will was terrific for us last year and made a massive contribution but he dropped down the pecking order a little bit.

“I’m pleased he’s got something sorted out. He’s a good signing for them and I’m just surprised there wasn’t more interest in him.

“I’ve been liaising with Will and we both agreed that having played so many games it was best for him to go and look to find somewhere else.

“We left it open for him (to come back) a little bit as the summer wore on. But this is a good opportunity and we wish him all the best.”

Brown feels Atkinson can “galvanise” the Essex club as they look to mount a serious promotion bid to follow City out of League Two next term.

Brown said: “I had Will as a player when I was at Hull City and was always impressed by his ability and work ethic.

“I think he’s someone who can galvanise teams with his energy levels and he’s very good at keeping the ball in the final third, which is important.

“He’s has real physical and technical capabilities and he’s just had a fantastic season with Bradford City, who had to be one of the teams of the year.

“What they achieved was fantastic and Will certainly played a part in that so I’m delighted to have been able to bring him in.”

Atkinson could make his Shrimpers debut tomorrow in a friendly at Great Wakering Rovers, which is on the doorstep of Stambridge – where City once played during pre-season under Peter Taylor.

After making two signings this week, Parkinson is not expecting any more imminent transfer activity. City still need a second keeper and probably another midfielder.

The Bantams boss added: “We’re trying to piece the jigsaw together. We’re working on a few areas but it’s early days in pre-season.

“The squad will be judged when the first game of the season comes or maybe not until August 31 (at the end of the transfer window). It could be that long because things change by the day in football.

“Players you think you’ve got coming in suddenly don’t while others you thought had gone became available into your remit again. You just have to wait.

“The phone is constantly ringing and we’re working and meeting to discuss players.”

Meanwhile, City will start in the first round of the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy after missing out on a bye.