Barnet FC are delighted to confirm the signing of Conor Clifford on a short-term loan deal from Southend United.

The 23-year-old midfielder has made 41 appearances for the Shrimpers since joining on a free transfer at the start of last season.

Clifford made his name as a trainee at Chelsea, where he captained the Blues’ Youth Team to FA Cup glory in 2010. During his time at Stamford Bridge Clifford represented Plymouth, Notts County, Yeovil, Portsmouth and Crawley on loan.

He signed a short-term contract with Leicester City, then in the Championship, towards the end of the 2012/13 season but did not go on to feature for the Foxes.

Clifford has also represented his native Republic of Ireland up to Under 21 level, whilst he was also called up to the senior squad ahead of the 2014 World Cup qualifier against eventual champions Germany.

Everybody at Barnet FC would like to wish Conor a very warm welcome to the club and look forward to him making his mark at The Hive.