SOUTHEND United have completed the permanent signing of Adam Thompson from Watford.

The 21-year-old defender has put pen to paper on an 18 month deal to remain at Roots Hall after a six month loan stint.

And manager Phil Brown is thrilled to have completed the transfer of the Northern Ireland under 21 captain.

“I’m absolutely delighted to have signed Adam and brought him in to the football club on a permanent basis,” said Brown.

“He’s someone who I have enjoyed working with this season and I think he’s put in some very good performances.

“That was particularly true against Millwall at the weekend and he’s someone who is also capable of playing in a few different positions which is always good to have.”

Thompson’s permanent arrival also gives the Shrimpers more strength at the back after Rob Kiernan returned to Wigan Athletic following the completion of his own loan deal.

Blues are currently still also sweating on the fitness of right-back John White.

But Thompson is also able to fill in at that position and his keenness to join also impressed Brown.

“Adam wanted to remain a part of what we’re doing here and I think that speaks volumes about how well we’re doing,” said Brown.

“There are clauses in his contract about us being promoted and he is very confident that we will be able to go up this year.”

Thompson made 12 appearances while on loan with Southend and will be pushing for another start when the fourth placed Shrimpers head to Plymouth Argyle on Saturday.