SOUTHEND United manager Paul Sturrock expects Ben Reeves to extend his loan spell with the club.

Reeves’ initial month long stint from Southampton expires after tonight’s game at Barnet.

But Sturrock expects the midfielder, who fired Blues to Wembley with a late goal in the JPT against Leyton Orient last week, to extend his stay in south east Essex.

“We’re in talks with Southampton right now about making Ben’s loan spell longer and I would imagine everything would soon be sorted out for that to happen,” said Sturrock.

“Ben has shown during his time with us already that he’s a good player and we’re working on making sure he stays with us for longer.”

Reeves has made seven appearances for Blues since arriving at Roots Hall at the end of January.

And the 21-year-old, who has scored two goals during those games, also wants to extend his loan spell with Southend.

“It’s out of my hands at the moment really but if it’s down to me then I’ll definitely be staying here, “said Reeves.

“I feel a part of things here now. The lads have all made me feel very welcome, there’s a great atmosphere around the club and I want to play a part in what will be an exciting end to the season.

“Promotion is still very much the number one aim, despite having got to Wembley, and want to try and help that happen.

“The manager has spoken to me about what might happen and they’re thinking about delaying the loan signing so I can then play until the end of the season.

“But I just want to be playing and helping Southend do well.”

Reeves’ next chance to impress comes tonight when eighth placed Blues head to Barnet, who are just above the relegation zone.

However, the midfielder is taking nothing for granted against the Bees.

“Barnet have got some good results just recently and will be hard to play against,” said Reeves.

“They have people like Edgar Davids in their team but we’re full of confidence after the last couple of games and will be going there to try and get another good result to move us up closer to the play-offs again.”