GARY Deegan was a happy man after seeing Southend United’s hard work rewarded with a nail-biting play-off final victory against Wycombe Wanderers at Wembley on Saturday.

The popular midfielder was an unused substitute against the Chairboys.

But the tough-tackling Irishman made a big contribution during the campaign and is thrilled to have played a part in a promotion campaign.

“It’s been good and to have a season with some success at the end of it feels great because everyone has worked so hard all year for this,” said Deegan, who signed for the Shrimpers in August.

“For me personally it’s been great to be a part of too because things hadn’t been going well for me before coming to Southend.

“I’ve stuck at it and worked hard just like everyone has here and it’s great to be going up a league now.”

Blues worked their way out of League Two by beating Wycombe 7-6 on penalties after Joe Pigott had dramatically netted an injury-time equaliser at the end of extra-time.

And Deegan admitted it was tough to watch from the bench.

“It was so nerve-wracking to sit there and see what was going on,” said the Irishman.

“But the relief when we won was just unbelievable.

“You just couldn’t have written how that game ended and it was just fantastic to be a part of.”

Deegan now hopes to be able to help Blues build on their success when they line up in League One next season.

The 27-year-old’s deal is soon due to expire but he is keen to remain at Roots Hall.

“It will be good to get some talks going and then we can go from there but I’ll be happy to sit down and have a chat,” said Deegan.

“I enjoy it here and the fans have been good to me too.”

Deegan has become a popular figure among the supporters due to his no-nonsense attitude and his eye-catching beard.

However, the midfielder is now considering shaving it off.

“It’s up in the air at the moment about whether or not I’m going to be keeping the beard,” said Deegan. “I’m going to be leaving the executive decision to my missus because she has to see me every day so I’ll see what happens.

“I know the fans won’t be too happy and it’s taken me six months to grow, but I’m not sure I’ll be keeping it.”