DANISH centre-back Mads Ibenfeldt and former Queens Park Rangers winger Angelo Balanta are both on trial with Southend United.

Ibenfeldt, 29, impressed against the Shrimpers while playing for Gillingham in a friendly last season.

And he could well line up for Blues in their behind closed doors friendly with Colchester United today, along with Balanta.

“Mads is someone who caught our eye when he played in a development game for Gillingham against us last season,” confirmed Southend boss Phil Brown.

“He’s six foot five inches tall so he’s commanding presence and he’s also very good on the ball so he’s someone we’re going to have a look at, along with Angelo.”

Ibenfeldt has played in Denmark for Silkeborg, NFC, B93, Bronshoj and Akademisk but he is now keen to carve out a career for himself in the English game.

Winger Balanta, 24, is also looking for a new club after being released by QPR.

Balanta had been trial with Bradford City but he will now be teaming up with the Shrimpers.

And boss Brown is eager to see him action. ““I’ve been trying to get Angelo in with us for a few weeks and he’s agreed to it now which is good news,” said Brown.

“He’s someone I look the like of and he can play in a variety of positions.

“He can play wide left, on the right or behind the striker so we’re going to have a look at him this week.

“I know there have been question marks about his attitude in the past but he’s assured me he will come in and work hard.”

However, full-back Gavin Hoyte and winger Roman-Michael Percil will not be figuring again for the Shrimpers.

The duo had been on trial at Roots Hall and had featured in pre-season friendlies.

But they have now been informed they will not be offered a deal with the Shrimpers.

Experienced striker Craig Fagan remains on trial with the club and could also feature against Colchester today.