CAOLAN Lavery wants to bring the luck of the Irish to Southend United for the remainder of the season.

The under 21 Northern Ireland international striker has joined Blues on loan from Sheffield Wednesday.

And he has requested to wear number 13 during his time at Roots Hall.

“Everyone has always worn 13 in my family so I’ll be asking if I can wear it for Southend while I’m here,” said Lavery.

“I haven’t been able to wear it since coming over to England too often.

“But hopefully I can for Southend and it can prove to be lucky too.”

Lavery has been brought in by Blues boss Paul Sturrock to strengthen his striking options.

And the 20-year-old, who has yet to make a senior appearance in his career, is keen to make a good impression.

“This is a good chance for me and it’s one I want to make the most of,” said Lavery.

“I’ve heard good things about Southend and also the manager who used to be charge at Wednesday so I’m looking forward to it.

“Things have been going well for me at Wednesday and I’ve been in and around the first team.

“But it’s time for me to step things up and this loan spell can help me do that.

“I want to do well and get some goals to help the team get good results and hopefully promotion.”

Lavery, who describes himself as a hard-working striker, has been suffering with a slight hamstring problem.

However, he expects to be back in full training by the end of the week and hopes to be able to make his debut against Oxford United at Roots Hall on Saturday.

“My hamstring has been a bit tight but I should be available to play at the weekend,” said Lavery.

“I’m looking forward to it too because it would be my senior debut.”

Such an opportunity has been a long time coming for Lavery, who first came to play in England four years ago when he signed for Ipswich Town.

But, despite being brought up in Canada, the youngster always dreamed of making a name for himself overseas.

“My parents are Irish and my dad’s a big football fan who always followed the game over here so it’s where I wanted to play,” said Lavery.

“In Canada it was hard because everyone played ice hockey not football but it’s what I always wanted to do.

“My cousin (David Scullion) got a move to Aston Villa and my agent was able to get me a few trials.

“Luckily, I was able to get something sorted and now I want to get some games and hopefully show what I can do.”