SOUTHEND United have signed midfielder Scott Donnelly on loan from Aldershot Town until the start of January.

The 24-year-old, who trained with Blues during pre-season, was brought in by manager Paul Sturrock just ahead of the loan transfer window closing.

And the Southend boss was pleased to bring him in to add to for the competition for places.

“With Christmas coming up Scott is coming in to provide some cover for the squad,” said Sturrock.

“The opportunity was there to take him short term and with a lot of games coming up you never know if we might need him because of injuries and suspension.

“He obviously knows the squad following his trial from the summer so will be able to fit right in.”

Donnelly started his career with QPR and has also played for Swansea City and Wycombe Wanderers.

He will go straight in to the squad for tomorrow’s game against Rochdale at Roots Hall.