NOEL Hunt is set to undergo a medical at Southend United today.

The former Reading and Ipswich Town striker watched the Shrimpers in action against Charlton Athletic on Tuesday night.

And the 32-year-old is now edging closer to signing for the League One newcomers.

“Noel is due to have a medical today,” confirmed Blues boss Phil Brown.

“It’s been a complicated situation but we’ve booked in a medical and hopefully we can everything sorted out now.

“He’s had a few niggling injuries during the past couple of seasons which we’re hoping we can sort with a hands on approach.

“But this has been going on for so long now that I’m not making any promises about anything.”

If Hunt successfully comes through the medical and completes a free transfer switch to the Shrimpers then he could well line up against Leyton Orient at Roots Hall on Sunday.

And Blues shot-stopper Daniel Bentley also looks set to line up against the O’s, in Blues’ final pre-season friendly, having now returned to full training following an illness.

“Dan trained yesterday and I thought he really looked back to his best,” said Brown.

“He will be fine to play on Sunday.”