A TRIO of midfielders have joined Southend United on trial.

Ex Watford man Ross Jenkins, former Northampton midfielder Gary Deegan and Irishman Patrick Cregg have all teamed up with Blues.

And manager Phil Brown will give them all an opportunity to impress.

“The three of them have come in and will be featuring in the games we have this week,” said Brown.

“I’m trying to organise a match at the weekend as well, so the opportunities will be them for them to play and show what they can do.”

Jenkins, 23, came through the youth ranks at Watford and made 102 appearances for their first team.

He also spent time on loan with Plymouth Argyle and Barnet but is now available on a free transfer.

Deegan, 27, is also without a club after leaving Blues’ League Two rivals Northampton Town. The midfielder has previously played for Coventry City and Hibernian and a host of clubs in Ireland.

Cregg, 28, came through the ranks at Arsenal before playing in Scotland for St Johnstone, St Mirren, Morton, Hibernian and Falkirk.

Blues could be keen to strengthen their midfield options after Michael Timlin was ruled out for three months with a dislocated elbow.

Defenders Ben Richards-Everton and Mads Ibenfeldt both remain on trial along with winger Craig Fagan and striker Jordan Chiedozie.