SOUTHEND are poised to snap up a new striker in time to make his debut at Valley Parade.

The Shrimpers expect to unveil a permanent signing against City, thought to be Fulham’s Stephen Humphrys.

The 21-year-old has been on loan with Stuart McCall at Scunthorpe, where he scored five goals in 20 appearances. He was not involved in their defeat at the Bantams last month.

His arrival will come as a timely boost for Southend boss Chris Powell, who is short of options up front with Tom Hopper out for the rest of the season with a knee injury.

A lengthy casualty list has been behind the Essex side’s up-and-down form, with 12 players missing for last weekend’s 3-2 home loss to City’s relegation rivals Plymouth.

That was a flattering result for Southend, who scored their two goals in the last five minutes – including a stunning effort from inside his own half from teenager Charlie Kelman.

The 17-year-old former season-ticket holder was rewarded with a first senior contract this week, although he is likely to be on the bench again for the Bantams clash.

Kelman has a sensational strike rate in the club’s age-group system. He netted a staggering 61 goals for Southend’s under-16s last season and has already chalked up 18 in 21 outings at under-18 level.

Powell has a few extra options this weekend, although he lost winger Harry Bunn to a hamstring injury.

Centre half Taylor Moore should be back after pulling his hamstring in the recent Checkatrade Trophy loss to Portsmouth.

Left back Sam Hart is also likely to make his first start after signing on loan from Blackburn. He had spent the first half of the season with Rochdale.

“He’s a player that catches the eye and is very forceful,” said Powell.

“He loves a tackle, he’s got good height and can definitely go forward.”

Southend, who also have Theo Robinson back from suspension, have won five games on their travels – most recently at Oxford on Boxing Day.