SOUTHEND United are keeping tabs on Leicester City striker Jacob Blyth.

The 21-year-old forward spent time on loan at Northampton Town last season.

And Shrimpers boss Phil Brown would now like to bring the target-man to Roots Hall.

“Jacob’s one we’ve done our homework on and if there’s a chance he could be leave Leicester on loan again then we would definitely be interested in him,” confirmed Brown.

“He played against us for Northampton last season and caught our eye but I had seen him before then for Leicester reserves against Arsenal.

“He’s a big tall lad who is also quite strong.

“He’s young and raw as well but he’s one we’re certainly keeping an eye on at the moment because we do need more forwards.”

Blyth was plucked from non Leamington by Leicester in May 2012 and was soon sent out on loan to Burton Albion.

However, he made just two substitute appearances for the Brewers before spending a month with Notts County where he failed to score in four outings.

Last season, Blyth enjoyed two loan spells with Northampton and scored a combined total of three goals in eight starts.

Injuries stopped him making more appearances but he was rewarded for his progress by signing a new two year deal with the Foxes last month.

Blues are now waiting to discover if the youngster will be available for another loan spell.

The Shrimpers currently have just two recognised strikers in their squad, Barry Corr and Lee Barnard.

They are also in discussions with Crystal Palace in a bid to also bring forward Kwesi Appiah to the club on a year long loan.