Two Premiership strikers will arrive at Southend United on trial today.

Blues will look at Aston Villa hitman Andrew Marfell and Southampton forward Adam Wallace.

And both players are expected to get a Roots Hall run out this week, with Luton Town agreeing to play their Avon Insurance League Combination fixture on Wednesday at 2pm.

"These players have been told they can leave their respective clubs at the end of the season," said Blues manager Rob Newman.

"But both Aston Villa and Southampton want to help them get fixed up elsewhere and have decided to let them go out on trial.

"We will have a good look at both lads this week and if they come up to scratch they could be rewarded with a contract at Roots Hall."

Marfell, 20, is a 6ft 1ins tall targetman, who was recommended to Newman by his former Norwich City manager, Villa Park coach John Deehan.

Wallace is an 18-year-old Southampton scholar and neither player has performed at first team level for their clubs.

Finally, Newman said he was still considering a trial move for Cheltenham Town's striker/midfielder Hugh McAuley.

More on Southend United FC

What are your views on Southend? Have your say on our Views on the Blues bulletin board

Published Monday, March 18, 2002