Egan joined on loan from Sunderland on Thursday, and the 21-year-old will go straight into the squad for Saturday’s game at home to Wycombe Wanderers.

And the 21-year-old was delighted to be given the opportunity to come to Blues and get some first-team action.

He said: “I was buzzing when I was first asked to come down a day or so ago to Southend United.

“I’ve not played first team football in a while so I’m really looking forward to it.

“I just want to help the club up the table and rediscover their form after what has been a bit of a dip in form.

“I didn’t sense any signs that the players were down during my first day, and they all seem confident of getting back on a good run.

“Since September I’ve been playing under-21 football with Sunderland after recovering from a serious injury.

“So I am delighted to be back playing again and can’t wait to get stuck in for Southend. Hopefully I can take my chance.”

Egan describes himself as a no-nonsense central defender, but says he likes to get the ball down and play out from the back at the same time.

He said: “I’m no-nonsense in my approach, I like heading it and getting tackles in there.

“I feel I bring a bit on the ball too and am more than happy to take the ball to feet and build up from the back.

“If I do have to get stuck in and roll up my sleeves I’m more than happy to do just that.”

Having had a loan spell with Bradford City last season, and played for the Republic of Ireland’s youth sides, Egan knows a couple of Blues’ players who have helped him settle.

“I know Will Atkinson from Bradford City and I have played with Conor Clifford in the youth teams for the Republic of Ireland,” he added.

“It’s nice to be able to know a couple of people when you first come in because it makes it a lot easier to settle in.

“All the lads have made me welcome and I’m really looking forward to getting started against Wycombe on Saturday.”