SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher is continuing his search for a new striker.

With Jake Hyde, Rhys Murphy and Harry Cardwell all out injured the Shrimpers are short of attacking options for Saturday's trip to Solihull Moors.

And Maher knows Blues are in need of reinforcements in the final third.

"The priority is to recruit at the top end of the pitch," said Maher.

"But it’s not always easy to bring players in, especially in that area as teams don’t want to lose players in forward positions.

"With the loan markets Premier League clubs are waiting for League clubs for their under 23 players and they’re biding their time a little bit.

"We’re trying and we’re looking and fingers crossed we’ll get something done."

But when asked if a forward could be signed in time to feature on Saturday, Maher added: "It’s difficult but I don’t know."

READ MORE

>Former Blues defender named Motherwell boss