SOUTHEND United defender Adam Barrett feels ready to play on for another season.

The popular centre-back, who made his 300th appearance for the Shrimpers in Sunday's play-off clash at Stevenage, had originally planned to hang up his boots at the end of the season.

But, having forced his way back into the starting line-up, Barrett is now keen to carry on playing for another year.

“Having thought about it all I want to stay at the club and I do feel as though I've still got a lot to offer,” said the defender.

“I would like to think I’ve made an impact on the team since I’ve been playing and if I was 25 and not 35 then people wouldn’t really be talking about it as an issue.

“Obviously at the moment all I’m thinking about is the game on Thursday and making sure we get promotion this season.

“But, after the games have finished, I’ll talk to the manager and if he feels I have a part to play then I would definitely play for another year.

“However, I only want to play on for Southend and I won’t go on to play for anyone else.

“I’ve always wanted to finish my career here and that’s what will happen.

“It just has to be decided whether or not it will be this summer or next.”

Barrett, who grew up supporting the Shrimpers, made 289 appearances for the club during his first stint at Roots Hall which included back to back promotions as Steve Tilson's side surged into the Championship.

Barrett, a former Belfairs High School pupil, left Blues in 2010 before returning in January.

He initially struggled to nail down a regular slot in the side but he has now started the last nine games and was named League Two's player of the month for April