Barker played 39 games during a loan spell at Colchester

Out-of-favour Plymouth Argyle left-back Chris Barker is set to join Southend United in a one-month loan deal, subject to league registration.

The 30-year-old's move will be ratified once the Shrimpers have their transfer embargo lifted by the Football League.

Meanwhile French midfielder Adam Bouzid, 22, has agreed a one-year contract at Roots Hall.

He finished last season in Morocco with Mouloudia Club Oujda but was released in the summer.

He played the second-half of Southend's 1-1 friendly draw with West Ham on Tuesday.

Barker has been told he is surplus to requirements by Argyle boss Peter Reid.

606: DEBATE I don't trust anyone or anything when it comes to this football club - that's what makes it exciting to follow. I do have a gut feeling that come Saturday, we will have a decent team out Gizmo Winchester

He played in Southend's friendly with Eastbourne on Saturday and will now join former manager Paul Sturrock.

The defender joined Barnsley in 1999 from non-league side Alfreton Town and went on to feature 139 times while at Oakwell.

Cardiff paid around £500,000 for his services in July 2002 and he went on to play 170 games for the Welsh side in a five-year spell that included loan moves to Stoke and Colchester.

A permanent switch to Queens Park Rangers was followed by his stint at Home Park.

Southend have also confirmed a deal to bring Josh Simpson from Peterborough United on loan for six months will be completed as soon as they can register players.

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