SOUTHEND United midfielder Jack Bridge is set to join Northampton Town.

The 22-year-old has struggled to work his way into the Shrimpers first team.

And Blues boss Phil Brown has confirmed Bridge is now likely to depart.

“There’s a deal to be done and it does look like Jack will be going to Northampton,” said Brown.

“I’m not sure when the deal will be completed but he won’t be playing for Northampton against us at the weekend whatever happens.”

Bridge - a former Eastwood School pupil - came through the youth ranks at Roots Hall but has been unable to nail down a regular role in the first team squad.

The midfielder has figured just twice so far this season and has made 11 senior appearances in total for his hometown club.

Bridge trained with Northampton towards the end of November, due to Dean Austin being the Cobblers’ assistant manager.

Austin, a former Southend defender, worked within the Shrimpers’ youth set-up for the second half of last season and is therefore keen to bring Bridge to the Sixfields Stadium.

Northampton are currently 22nd in the League One standings and have triumphed just once in their last 11 games.