JOSH Wright will make his first appearance in a Southend United shirt in this afternoon’s under-23 clash at Barnet.

The midfielder, who is the brother of The Only Way Is Essex stars Mark and Jessica Wright, completed a switch to the Shrimpers at the weekend.

And Blues boss Phil Brown is keen to see the 27-year-old in action before Saturday’s clash at Fleetwood Town.

“Josh looked different class in training but I thought it would be good for him to get some minutes under his belt in the Barnet game,” said Brown.

“He’s had a full pre-season and has played four games for Gillingham already this season so I’m sure his fitness levels are good.

“But he’s had a month without a game so I thought this game would help to keep him ticking over before the weekend.”

Elvis Bwomono will also feature against the Bees.