Southend United striker Drewe Broughton is set to join League Two strugglers Rushden and Diamonds in a permanent deal.

The big targetman has struggled to work his way back into Blues' first team since returning from a short loan spell with Wycombe Wanderers and is believed to have decided to leave Roots Hall in search of regular first team football.

Broughton, 26, enjoyed a successful three month loan spell with Rushden earlier this season - scoring five goals in 10 games - and is expected to return to Nene Park to help the lowly Diamonds avoid relegation.

Barry Hunter's side are currently 22nd in the League Two table, just four points ahead of fellow scrappers Kidderminster Harriers, with 15 games to go.

And Broughton will be hoping to rediscover his goalscoring touch and secure the club's League status after enduring an indifferent 18 months with the Shrimpers.

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