SOUTHEND United have bolstered their defensive options with the addition of Deon Woodman on a month long loan deal from Queens Park Rangers.

With Ollie Kensdale and Harry Taylor both sidelined with injuries, Blues boss Kevin Maher was down to just three available centre-backs.

And the Shrimpers chief is pleased to have brought in the 21-year-old who spent time on loan with National League rivals Wealdstone earlier this season.

“It’s an area that we’ve been short in and Deon is someone that has played at the level fairly recently,” said Maher.

“He’s really tall, he’s quick and he’s got good technical ability so we think he’s someone that will do well for us.

“We’ve been hit with a couple of injuries which has made us a bit light in the defensive areas so I’m grateful to the club for allowing us to bring someone in and we think he will do really well for us.”

Woodman – who is six foot five inches tall – also spent time on loan with Dulwich Hamlet last season.

And he jumped at the chance to team up with Blues.

“I’m really excited to join,” said Woodman.

“I know the fans here are really up it for every game and I’m just really excited to show what I can do.

“Going out on loan is a really good learning experience.

“It’s different to academy football playing for three points each week in front of the fans that love their club.

“It’s definitely a big experience for me and hopefully I can get some minutes and show what I’m about.”

Woodman will spend the next four weeks with the Shrimpers and remains eager to make the most of any opportunities coming his way.

“The pressure is on to make a good impression in a short space of time, but that’s something that I will embrace,” said Woodman.

“I want to perform and help the team try and pick up three points to push us up the table.”

Woodman will go straight into the squad for tonight's match with Wealdstone at Roots Hall.