Stewart (pictured right) was released by the Shrimpers last month without having made a first-team appearance.

The now 21-year-old signed for Southend as an under-14 player during the 2014/15 season.

He had previously enjoyed three years with Wandsworth Town.

Having completed his scholarship with the Shrimpers, he was awarded a development contract in the summer of 2019.

A stylish central midfielder, he scored on his under-18 debut in an EFL Youth Alliance Merit League fixture against Swindon Town in April 2017 and went on to feature over 50 times with the under-18s during his scholarship.

He showed good leadership skills when acting as vice-captain of the Merit League One title-winning squad in 2018/19.

Stewart is no stranger to non-League football below the top level, however, having had a spell with Isthmian Premier outfit Margate on `work experience` in 2019/20, making 9 appearances and scoring one goal, with Gate`s league rivals Merstham later that same season, adding 4 games to his tally, and then with National League South side Welling United earlier this term, where he turned out 6 times.

Stewart made his Canvey debut as a second half substitute in Saturday’s 4-1 win against Basildon United.