SOUTHEND United manager Kevin Bond wants to add a new left-back, centre-back and winger to his Shrimpers squad.

Bond led Blues to League One safety after taking charge for the final six games of last season.

But the 61-year-old is now keen to bolster his options as he bids to finish higher up the table next term and has already identified the main areas he feels need improving.

“We haven’t really got a left-back at the moment so we need to look at that and I think we’re short at centre-half too,” said Bond.

“I think we could do with players out wide who could take us up the pitch and create too.”

Bond will be looking to make more signings but will not be giving much away until signings are completed.

“We’re working hard but until we get something over the line we won’t be saying anything,” said the former Bournemouth boss.

“We won’t be saying who we are in for because I’d rather get it over the line and then make an announcement.”

However, Bond is determined to make the right signings and hopes the first new face is not far away from arriving.

“The important thing is to make sure you get the right ones,” said the 61-year-old.

“We need to make sure we get value for money in terms of their minutes on the pitch and if possible you want to improve on what you’ve had before.

“But I’d like to think something is close in terms of recruiting. We have some bits to do but it would be nice to get something done before I go away on holiday this weekend.

“I can’t promise it will happen but I promise we’re doing all we can.”

Bond was back in Southend this week preparing for pre-season, which gets underway at the start of July. But he is fully aware of how tough it can be to complete transfers for the club’s top targets.

“It’s always a challenge because when you’re looking at players who you think would improve you they probably see themselves playing for a top of the table League One club or even a Championship club,” said Bond.

“You’re often competing against them too so it’s not an easy thing to do.”