Shell-shocked striker Barry Conlon is still coming to terms with his £100,000 switch from Southend United to York City.

The 20-year-old forward joined the Bootham Crescent club last week after Blues boss Alan Little decided the Republic of Ireland under-21 international was surplus to requirements at Roots Hall.

Now, Conlon, who hit seven goals in 23 starts last season, is hoping his move to the fellow Third Division outfit will kickstart his career.

"To be honest I'm completely surprised that I'm at York at all," said Conlon, who joined the Shrimpers for £90,000 from Manchester City last September.

"I was busy getting ready for the new season with Southend, when all of a sudden York came in for me.

"I certainly wasn't expecting to move on and I was looking forward to a successful campaign at Roots Hall, but maybe this move is just what I need to get me firing again."

Conlon said his short spell with Southend had been frustrating, but he aimed to prove his doubters wrong by getting it right with the Minstermen.

"My time with Southend has probably been the hardest of my career so far," Conlon admitted.

"Southend paid a lot of money for me and I didn't get off to the best of starts at Roots Hall, although I think I won most of the fans around towards the end of last season.

"But this year is totally different and is a very big season for me personally. I know I have to start delivering the goods in front of goal and I aim to hit the net consistently this term."

Conlon, who signed a three-year contract with York, said he looked forward to returning to Roots Hall this season with his new team.

"I'll miss the lads at Southend, because they're a great bunch, but I'll be back to see them this season," he added. "I'm sure that both Southend and York will be involved in the promotion race this year and I'm looking forward to lining up against my old team mates at Roots Hall when I come back."

Southend chief Little, who managed York for six years, believes Conlon's sale to his former club represents good business.

"I decided to let Barry leave because York's offer was too good to refuse," explained the Shrimpers' manager.

On top of the £100,000 fee, Blues will also receive an unspecified share of any future transfer of Conlon to another club.

Blues face Gary Calder's Billericay Town at New Lodge tonight in the latest match of their pre-season campaign (7.30am).

Out of the Blue - Barry Conlon was surprised at his transfer to York City

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