Gary Smith swooped for Anthony Furlonge in April 2012, with the defender signing pro terms after being on a youth deal at Southend United. A right-back by trade, Furlonge did get the offer of a professional deal at Southend. But it was withdrawn by the Essex club and it was us who were to benefit. Not that we made use of him, however. His youth was perhaps a factor in not giving him game time. But after a couple of loan spells away from the Lamex, Furlonge left the club a year later.

Anthony Furlonge: Before Boro’

The young defender came through the ranks at Millwall and Arsenal, before moving onto Roots Hall. There, he featured in the Shrimpers reserve team and also spent some time at non-league Thurrock. It is also reported that the player had caught the eye of Fulham, but no move came about.