John-Joe O'Toole: Northampton Town midfielder joins Southend

John-Joe O'Toole was Bristol Rovers' top scorer last season

Southend United have signed Northampton Town midfielder John-Joe O'Toole on loan until 24 January.

The 26-year-old will be able to play against his parent club in Saturday's League Two game at Roots Hall and the return fixture on 3 January.

O'Toole joined the Cobblers from Bristol Rovers in the summer, but has made just eight league starts.

Meanwhile, Southend midfielder Gary Deegan has extended his contract until 24 January.

The 26-year-old has played 12 times since signing a three-month deal in August.

Reacting to O'Toole's arrival, Cobblers boss Chris Wilder told BBC Radio Northampton: "Hopefully, he will try and kickstart his career.

"We had to find a solution as to why he's not produced what we and he feels he can. We came up with the suggestion that he might fancy a loan move."

The former Watford and Colchester player scored 15 times last season as Bristol Rovers were relegated to the Conference, but has failed to find the net in a Northampton shirt.

Wilder said the decision to allow O'Toole to play against the Cobblers was crucial to the deal happening.

"If we didn't allow him to play then the deal may not have gone through," he added.

"If he does well then maybe a longer deal will be discussed. Other people will look at him, but certainly he wants to play football away from this club."