SOUTHEND United manager Phil Brown is to offer Jakub Sokolik a contract – but insists he is still short of numbers.

The Shrimpers complete their pre-season campaign at home to Colchester United on Saturday.

But Brown believes his squad is still in desperate need of being bolstered.

“I was pleased with the Newcastle game on Tuesday night but I do think it showed up we’re lacking in numbers,” said Brown.

“You obviously make changes during pre-season games but we don’t have many options in certain areas.

“I had two trialist centre-backs playing and when it came to changing things in midfield we’re delving into the under 21s.

“Alarm bells are ringing about the size of the squad at the moment and we do need to start bringing more signings in.”

But one new arrival could be centre-back Sokolik who Brown is set to offer a contract to.

The centre-back - who has twice been on loan with the Shrimpers in the past - has been back at Roots Hall on trial during pre-season.

And the 22-year-old will now be handed the opportunity to make another return.

“I’ve spoken to Jakub and I’m now waiting to speak to his agent about what’s going to happen,” said Brown.

“We will be offering Jakub a deal but will have to wait and see if it’s one he’s interesting to signing.”

However, centre-back William Edjenguele and striker Ronan Murray - who had also been on trial with Blues - will not be given contracts by the club.

“I’ve spoken to William and Ronan and they will be leaving us now,” said Brown.

“Ronan got a couple of goals for us but we have Simon Cox in now and David Mooney plus Nile Ranger, who is ahead of Ronan as well if we can get him fit.

“Jason Williams also showed one or two signs of progression during the Newcastle game and I just thought it was best to let Ronan move on.”