PAUL Brush has revealed the Shrimpers could boost their small squad throughout the season with loan signings.

With little more than a week until the start of the new League One season, Blues just have 16 outfield players.

But the assistant manager has confirmed the club are looking to bolster those numbers with temporary signings.

“We’re looking at bringing people in on loan and that will be ongoing,” said Brush.

“I think there will be more movement on that front after the Premier League starts because sides will then know which players they want to send out. They are obviously doing it for their own benefit not ours but it’s something we’re looking at.”

Southend are also desperately seeking a new left back and Brush and the rest of the Shrimpers’ coaching staff are constantly talent spotting at a host of pre-season friendlies.

Subsequently, a list of targets has been drawn up and another trialist could play in that position at Wycombe Wanderers this Saturday.

“We’re hoping to get somebody in in time to have a look,” confirmed Brush.

>SOUTHEND have announced their squad numbers for the forthcoming League One campaign.

Full list: 1 Steve Mildenhall, 2 Simon Francis, 4 Nicky Bailey, 5 Peter Clarke, 6 Adam Barrett, 8 Alan McCormack, 9 Lee Barnard, 10 James Walker, 11 Alex Revell, 12 Damian Scannell, 14 Franck Moussa, 15 Osei Sankofa, 18 Johnny Herd, 20 Matt Harrold, 22 Richie Foran, 24 Ian Joyce, 25 Clark Masters, 29 Paul Furlong, 30 Stuart O’Keefe.