SOUTHEND United are in talks with Burnley to extend Luke O’Neill’s loan spell until the end of the season.

The right-back is currently sidelined with a thigh injury he picked up on his Shrimpers debut against Chesterfield.

But Blues boss Phil Brown has already seen enough to want him to remain at Roots Hall.

“Luke did well in the game he played before getting injured and we’re talking to Burnley about trying to keep him with us until the end of the season,” confirmed Brown.

“He won’t be available for the game tonight but with a bit of luck he will be for Friday’s game with Newport.”

O’Neill came to the club to replace John White who was forced to the sidelines with a dislocated shoulder.

White, who captains the Shrimpers, visited a specialist last night.

And the results of that could well determine if another defender comes to the club before the closure of the transfer window at the end of the week.

“I’m looking at bringing in another defender but I will be dictated to by the news of John’s injury,” added Brown.