SOUTHEND United manager Phil Brown has revealed the club remain locked in contract talks with centre-back Adam Thompson.

The defender, who has been sidelined since April with a shoulder problem, has yet to agree a new deal to remain at Roots Hall.

And Brown confirmed agreeing to the length of a new contract was proving problematic.

“We’re still talking and we’re trying to get Tommo to sign a deal until January,” said the Blues boss.

“He wants longer than January and we’re hoping he can soon get fit enough to prove himself again on the transfer ground before getting back into the team.

“If he’s in the team come January then he will be given a much longer deal.

“At the moment, though, he’s holding out for longer but the chairman wants to do it until January.”

Thompson joined Blues, originally on loan, in August 2013 and has made 48 appearances for the club.