New loan signing Jabo Ibehre had no hesitation in linking up with his former mentor Paul Brush at Southend United.

Ibehre came through the ranks at Leyton Orient under the guidance of Blues assistant boss Brush.

The 26-year-old was also managed in the O's first team by the former West Ham defender and now the Milton Keynes Dons player is looking forward to working with Brush once more after arriving on a month's loan at Roots Hall last night.

"I have known Paul for many years," said Jabo who is set to make his Southend debut against Norwich City on Tuesday night.

"At Leyton Orient he was my youth development office and then he brought me through as first team manager.

"He gave me my chance so I have a lot of admiration and respect for him."

Ibehre has also had first hand experience of his new Southend team-mates.

He was an unused substitute during Blues recent 2-1 win against MK Dons at Roots Hall.

And he was so impressed with what he saw that night he didn't give moving on loan a second thought.

"I was very impressed with the team when they played MK Dons the other day," he said.

"Steve Tilson and Paul Brush have always put together good sides over the years and they proved so the other week.

"This is an opportunity to go out and get regular football and get some game minutes under my belt.

"You just want to play football and regardless of where that is it's what you want to do.

"I have been injured so playing some games will help my fitness."

Versatile Ibehre can operate both upfront and on the wing but he admitted he isn't concerned about where he plays.

"I prefer to play upfront and that is where I played the majority of my football but I am happy out wide if that is what the manager wants," he admitted.

"I know Lee Barnard as he was on loan at Orient when I was there and he is having a great season so hopefully we can form a good partnership."