GARY Deegan is determined is already working towards winning a longer contract at Southend United.

The Irish midfielder has been snapped up on a three month deal by Shrimpers boss Phil Brown.

But Deegan is now eager to show he is worth keeping for longer.

“I’m so happy to have signed for a club like Southend United and now my next target is do well here and try to win a longer contract,” said the 26-year-old.

“Hopefully I can do well and when the three months are up I can sit down with the manager and talk about the future.

“I’m working hard behind closed doors and my fitness is close to where it needs to be so fingers crossed I’ll get a chance to play soon.”

Deegan initially came to Blues on trial during pre-season and played in friendlies against Queens Park Rangers and Ipswich Town.

He was then invited back in to train with the Shrimpers last week, following an injury to midfielder Michael Timlin.

And he jumped at the chance to join Southend after worries he may not find a new club.

“Of course I feared not getting a club, I would be lying if I said that didn’t cross my mind so I was delighted to get things sorted with Southend,” said Deegan.

“Ever since pre-season things had been going backwards and forwards so it was great to get it done and join up with the squad for the Carlisle game.

“I was impressed with how we played and, although we would probably have taken a point before the game, I think everyone felt we deserved all three.”

Deegan was with Northampton Town last season having previously played for Hibernian and Coventry City.

But he now has his sights set on making a big impression for the Shrimpers.

“I think I’ll bring energy to the team, I play at a high tempo and with aggression too,” said Deegan.

“I would like to think I can spot a pass too and I’m really looking forward to getting involved in the games coming up.”

Blues travel to Plymouth Argyle this weekend before heading to AFC Wimbledon the following Tuesday in the first round of the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy.