SOUTHEND United manager Paul Sturrock is hopeful of signing a new striker on loan before tomorrow’s trip to Hereford United.

The Scotsman has been keen to bolster his forward-line for several weeks.

But Echosport now understands the Blues boss is close to bringing in another front-runner who would spend at least the next four weeks at Roots Hall.

Sturrock was not prepared to publicly name his transfer target but it is believed to be a youngster on the books of a Championship club.

And he will do battle with the four forwards already on Blues’ books - Barry Corr, Blair Sturrock, Matt Paterson and Scott Spencer.

They have been vying for selection so far, with Corr the highest scoring striker with three goals to his name.