GARY Deegan has revealed he wants to stay at Southend United.

The tough-tackling midfielder’s three month contract expired after Saturday’s 2-1 win at Tranmere Rovers.

But, despite manager Phil Brown fearing Deegan could now depart, the Irishman is keen to remain at Roots Hall and soon hopes to agree a new deal.

“The talks have been going on for too long now really and I want to nip them in the bud and get it all sorted out,” said Deegan.

“We’re still talking at the moment but I want to stay and then try to get back in to the starting 11.

“The team’s on a good run and I want to be a part of that to try and help the lads get promotion this season.

Deegan, who revealed he would still be training with the Shrimpers this week, has made 12 appearances for Phil Brown’s side since signing on a free transfer at the end of the August.

However, he dropped out of the side for the last two matches and was not even on the bench for Saturday’s clash at Tranmere.

But he now wants to sort out his future in time for him to take on his former Northampton Town side at Roots Hall this Saturday.

“I’ve been enjoying it at Southend and would like to get everything sorted before the weekend,” said Deegan, who lined up 30 times during a year long spell with the Cobblers.

“That’s not because we’re playing Northampton though, it doesn’t really matter who the other team are to be honest.

“I just want to get the situation sorted and I want to stay with Southend.”