BAD NEWS— Oxford United Man Set for Temporary Exit

Centre-back James Golding is expected to leave his current Championship club and head out on loan once again, with a move lined up through to the end of the 2025/26 season.

The 21-year-old began the campaign on loan in League Two, but his spell was cut short in November due to injury, forcing him back earlier than planned.

Southend United are pushing to secure a National League play-off spot after finishing in the top seven last season. However, injuries and a dip in form have recently derailed their momentum, causing them to fall just outside the play-off places.

Golding, who is contracted to Oxford United, is now closing in on a return to the National League. Having previously impressed during loan spells with Southend and Maidenhead, he has built a solid reputation at that level.

With an EFL move no longer possible due to his recovery timeline, an opportunity arose for him to return to familiar surroundings.

Reports suggest he has agreed a deal to rejoin Southend for the remainder of the season.
The Essex side have been actively searching for defensive cover after Nathan Ralph suffered a serious injury that will require surgery, ruling him out for an extended period.

Golding’s return is expected to be a straightforward loan deal, while he remains tied to Oxford United on a long-term contract signed last summer.

The young defender previously made a strong impression during his time at Maidenhead United before joining Southend in December 2024. During that spell, he featured 14 times and scored three goals, playing a key role in helping the team secure a play-off place.

He also contributed to four clean sheets, including in his first two matches, as Southend enjoyed an unbeaten run during that period.
This season, Southend have once again positioned themselves as play-off contenders, though injuries and fixture disruptions have affected their consistency.

They currently sit just two points outside the top seven, with games in hand that could prove crucial.

Golding has made 15 appearances across all competitions this season but hasn’t featured since November, averaging just under 50 minutes per game.

With a demanding schedule ahead, including five matches in less than three weeks, questions over his match sharpness may arise. Still, his familiarity with the squad and past impact could be key as Southend aim to revive their push for promotion.