Barnet have signed Southend United midfielder Conor Clifford on a short-term loan deal from the League Two side.

Clifford, 23, bolsters Martin Allen's side as they look to seal promotion back to the Football League and will remain with the Bees until March 7.

The former Chelsea midfielder is transfer listed at Roots Hall after falling down the pecking order in Essex and earlier in the day turned down the opportunity to join Barnet's Conference promotion rivals, Bristol Rovers, on loan.

Phil Brown said of Clifford's loan switch to The Hive: “Barnet are doing very well in the Conference, so it's a really good opportunity for Conor.

“They're favourites to get back in the Football League. It's a chance for him to go out on loan and play a few games."

Speaking to the Echo earlier today, Blues boss Brown said: “Barnet came in for him at the 11th hour and it remains to be seen whether or not they can complete a deal.”

"I have to say I’m astounded that not a single Football League club came in for Conor after the start he made with us to the season.

“He needs to go out and get himself games now to get himself going again and there’s been interest from Bristol Rovers and Barnet."

Clifford joined the Shrimpers from Leicester City in 2013 but has made just 42 league and cup appearances since for the League Two side.

A former Republic of Ireland Under-21 cap, Clifford has made just 13 appearances for the Shrimpers this term, the last of which came in November.

The midfielder began his career in Ireland with Crumlin United before joining Premier League giants Chelsea in 2007.

He spent time out on loan in the Football League with Plymouth Argyle, Notts County, Portsmouth, Yeovil Town and Crawley Town before leaving Stamford Bridge for good in March 2013 to join the Foxes.

However the 5ft 8in midfielder failed to make a single first-team appearance for the Midlands side before joining Southend in the summer of 2013.

Bristol Rovers had expected to announce the signing of Clifford this morning but Clifford turned down the opportunity to join the Gas on a short-term loan basis.