Southend have cancelled Monday's friendly with Canvey after Friday's game with Ipswich went the same way due to the shortcomings of their squad. Their first friendly match will now be on the 16th, just three weeks before the season starts. Meanwhile chairman Ron Martin has told the Guardian that their court date tomorrow will be dismissed, and that Paul Sturrock will sign his contract afterwards.
Crewe are giving a trial to Sunday League striker Jimmy McCarthy. The 24 year old became an insurance salesman after Stoke dropped him from their Academy at the age of 15. Cheltenham have delayed a move for Portsmouth youngster Marlon Pack after boss Mark Yates had second thoughts. Crawley have had a 'substantial' bid accepted for Peterboro winger Sergio Torres.
Shrewsbury have signed Watford defender Mat Sadler on loan until January. The 25 year old cost the Hornets £750,000 but he has not played in the first team in over 18 months after injury. Stockport are said to be chasing former Macclesfield man Paul Bolland. Northampton have reappointed Tim Flowers as their goalkeeper coach after he ended his short spell at Hull.
Notts County say they have cleared their HMRC debt and are up to date with payments. Northampton have announced that they have retained midfielder Abdul Osman on a week to week contract to retain compensation rights should he sign for another club. They have offered him a new deal. Rotherham have beaten Shrewsbury to the signing of former Walsall midfielder Mark Bradley.
Southend are reported to be trialling former Swindon pair Barry Corr and Sofi Zaaboub. Both played for Paul Sturrock with the Robins. Striker Corr was released by Exeter after three goals in 34 games, while utility man Zaaboub was a bit player in a year with Walsall.