Before, during & after Southend
Experienced centre-half Ash Palmer arrived on loan from York City on 20 October 2026 to add strength and leadership to Southend's defence. He joined ahead of the National League meeting with FC Halifax Town, with the initial arrangement running until 14 January 2027.
His arrival gave Kieron Dyer another senior option at a time when fitness and availability were testing the squad. Palmer made his Southend debut as a starting defender in the 2–2 National League draw with FC Halifax Town at Roots Hall on 24 October 2026.

