The 19-year-old has joined Southend United on a season-long loan for the 2026/27 season
Joe Duncan has joined National League side Southend United on a season-long loan(Image: Photo by Rogan/Bristol City)
Bristol City’s teenage goalkeeper Joe Duncan has joined National League side Southend United on a season-long loan for the 2026/27 season.
The 19-year-old shot-stopper is a product of the Bristol City Academy and joined the club as an Under-11, before signing his first professional contract in 2023.
The Bristol-born keeper has previously enjoyed loan spells at both Tiverton Town and Farnborough across the last two campaigns, playing a key role in helping both clubs secure their league status.
Duncan received his first international call-up in 2024 when he was selected for Jamaica’s Under-23 squad, and this summer he trained with the Reggae Boyz’ senior team during a training camp held in London.
Goalkeeper coach Pat Mountain said: “We are really excited for Joe and he will benefit from the experience of being away from Bristol City for the first time in a full-time professional environment.
“He had a brilliant spell at Farnborough last season and this is another step in his development and a wonderful opportunity at a historic football club.
“It is a testament to Joe’s hard work, dedication and this supportive environment that he is now ready for this. It also shows the other young goalkeepers and players in our academy what is achievable. I will be in close communication with Southend and look forward to seeing his progress.”
Southend United won the FA Trophy at Wembley last season, as well as finishing sixth in the division, competing in the play-offs – only to narrowly lose 1-0 to Scunthorpe United.
First Team Manager Michael Skubala added: “This is a great move for Joe, who is a big part of the excellent goalkeeping group at the club. We are looking forward to watching his development in an extremely competitive league.”
Sporting Director James Ellis added: “We are really pleased with Joe’s progress. His previous loans, his experience on training camp with the Jamaican national team, and the short window of work with the first team this pre-season have shown he is ready for the next step.
“Creating a pathway and opportunity for our young talented players to grow, is so important to our success. The earlier our young players are exposed to the challenges of senior football the better, which includes playing away from City, playing in a pressurised environment and playing to win.
“The staff at Southend United have been superb in helping to make this happen and we wish them and Joe a great season ahead, as we, and hopefully our fans will be following him closely.”
