Searle joins Shrimpers

Nathan Jones will be a hard act to replace

Southend United's new signing has been revealed as Damon Searle from Carlisle United, report BBC Essex.

He has agreed terms with the Blues and is expected to complete a free transfer to Roots Hall.

Searle, a 28-year-old left-back, will be seen as a direct replacement for player-of-the-year Nathan Jones, who has departed for Brighton.

He has previously played for Cardiff City and Stockport and manager Alan Little feels he's got the right man for the job.

"He's made more than 350 league appearances and has the experience and versatility I'll need with a smaller squad next season.

"He's a similar sort of player to Nathan Jones, who's left for Brighton," said Little.