SOUTHEND United are close to sealing a loan switch for Bristol City striker Shawn McCoulsky.

The 21-year-old scored 11 goals in 35 games while on loan at Newport County last season and bagged a brace in the League Cup against Blues last August.

McCoulsky – who also scored in Newport’s 2-1 win against Leeds United in the FA Cup last season - has previously been on loan at Bath City, Torquay United and Weston Super Mare.

Blues are hoping to complete the loan deal in time for the forward to make his debut at Plymouth Argyle on Saturday.