Southend's promotion push gains a defensive boost with West Ham loanee

Southend United have signed teenage defender Rayan Oyebade on a season‑long loan from Championship side West Ham United to bolster a defence that lacks depth ahead of their promotion campaign. The 19‑year‑old will join the Shrimpers as they look to close the gap on the league leaders.

Oyebade featured 17 times in Premier League 2 for West Ham last season, gaining valuable experience at the youth level. He also contributed to the Hammers’ run to the National League Cup final, where they finished as runners‑up.

"The goal is to be part of a promotion with Southend United," the defender said on the club’s website. He emphasized his ambition to help the Shrimpers achieve upward movement.

The loan runs for the entire season, giving Southend a chance to integrate the young centre‑back without a permanent transfer fee. Oyebade has not yet made a senior appearance for West Ham United.