SOUTHEND United’s academy manager Ricky Duncan is pleased to see his young players benefitting from spells out on loan.

Terrell Egbri, Matt Rush and Miles Mitchell-Nelson are currently all on loan with Harlow Town, Michael Klass is with Bromley on a temporary basis while Rob Howard is lining up for Dartford.

And Duncan believes the youngsters will all develop from playing men’s football.

“They’re playing 3pm on a Saturday for three points that really matter and that’s what they need,” said Duncan.

“We had a chat about it and we decided it was right to get as many as we could out on loan so they could experience men’s football.

“It’s part of their development but I think it’s important for them to go and sample something like that at this stage of their careers.”

And Duncan has been thrilled to see them all doing well.

“Matt came off the bench to score for Harlow in their last game and then Terrell popped up to score the winner from 25 yards,” said Duncan.

“Rob had an assist in his first game which was a draw and Michael got his first start with Bromley the other day and they won so it’s going well.

“We have someone who goes to watch the games and we get reports back from them.

“They’ve all been very positive so far but whether they’re fighting relegation or going for promotion it’s good for them.

“And ideally I would like to try and get a few more out on loan before we have another look at it around Christmas time.”

But Blues’ youngsters will still be able to play for the under-23s.

“We can still use them in the games we have and that’s good too,” said Duncan.

“It means they’re getting the best of both worlds.”