Cardwell rejoins Southend from Forest Green

Southend United have re-signed striker Harry Cardwell on loan from Forest Green Rovers for the rest of the season, with a view to a permanent deal.

Cardwell left Roots Hall for Forest Green in the summer of 2024 after scoring 27 goals in 82 appearances for the club.

He has only played five games for Robbie Savage's side this season and none since a 1-0 home defeat by Rochdale in early October.

"I'm over the moon to be honest," the 26-year-old said. "We went through some tough times here and it still didn't affect the morale that the squad had, and you could see us reap the rewards of that on the pitch.

"It's something I'm really looking forward to getting back involved with and being part of again."

Southend reached the National League play-offs last season and are currently seventh in the table ahead of Saturday's visit to leaders Rochdale.

"Harry left at a time when deep down he probably didn't want to, but it was something he couldn't turn down," said Shrimpers boss Kevin Maher.

"We feel like we're getting a player who's desperate to prove people right. He's someone who knows us, knows the area and knows the club well so it shouldn't be a problem fitting in.

"With Cards, he's quite unique in terms of his size, mixed with his athleticism.

"The amount of balls we get in the box and the number of goals he got before he left, I think Cards will be desperate to be part of this team and add to the front line we've already got."