Ground: Roots Hall

Capacity: 12,306

Last season: 18th

Manager: Alan Little

Ins: Neil Tolson striker from York City on a Bosman; Gordon Connelly winger from York City £50,000.

Outs: Barry Conlon striker to York City for £100,000; Steve McGavin midfielder to Northampton; Andy Harris defender to Leyton Orient; Keith Dublin defender released.

Chances: The fortunes of the Shrimpers will be closely scrutinised by York City fans now that a summer two-way link has been developed since the sacked City manager took over at Roots Hall. Little turned to his former club for duo Neil Tolson and Gordon Connelly to swell the Southend goal potential and in so doing sacrificed Eire Under-21 international Barry Conlon, now at Bootham Crescent. Who gets the better of the deals remains to be see, but they have added extra spice to the two League clashes between the two sides. Southend watchers are convinced they will be challenging for the play-offs, especially if organisation can be brought to their ranks.

One to Watch: Garry Cross. Young, raiding right-back, who, at 18 years of age and in his first season as a professional, has the potential to have a big future at a higher level.

Title odds: 33-1.