SOUTHEND United are close to completing a double signing, according to boss Phil Brown.

Former Colchester United left-back Ben Coker and a midfielder who played in League Two last season are both in advanced discussions with the Shrimpers.

And Brown hopes to soon get both players on board.

“We have medicals booked for two players and hope the moves will be completed soon,” said Brown.

“We’ve had Ben on trial and I’ve been impressed by him so we’ve offered him a deal and hope he will accept it.

“He’s formed a good partnership with Anthony Straker down the left-hand side and I think Anthony’s best position could well be further forward.

“It’s something we will continue to look at and we’re also hopeful of bringing in someone else as well.”

Brown was not willing to publically name the second transfer target but did confirm he would be taking a look at two more trialists in tonight’s pre-season friendly at Chelmsford City, ex Stevenage striker Don Cowan and midfielder Tyler Christian.

“Don has been out with a broken ankle for a little while but he’s someone with blistering pace and we need that in the side,” said Brown.

“He can play either up front or out wide and he could well figure tonight.

“So too could Tyler, who is a central midfielder who has emerged from the scheme former Bradford City player Jamie Lawrence runs for released players.”

Centre-back Ryan Cresswell has been included in the squad after recovering from an illness while midfielder Ryan Leonard is available again and striker Barry Corr could also figure.

“Ryan is training again after a sickness bug and will feature tonight, along with Lenny (Leonard) who has had an annoying niggling injury,” said Brown.

“Barry has done a lot of work with the physio and if they agree to let him return then he could also play.

“It will be another good test for us and Chelmsford will be a strong, competitive team because they have Dean Holdsworth as their manager.

“I know all about him because he was my assistant at Derby County and he will want to get one over on us I’m sure.

“That will make it a good game and we will be looking to get 70 minutes or so from those who start the game.”