SOUTHEND United have completed the signing of defender Luke O’Neill from Burnley on a permanent basis. 

O’Neill was already with Blues on loan from the Clarets but has now signed a two year deal to remain at Roots Hall.

And Shrimpers boss Phil Brown is pleased to have kept the 24-year-old at the club.

“I always wanted the move to be a permanent one so I’m really pleased it’s been completed,” said Brown.

“When I was at Bolton I remember Bruce Rioch bringing in Gary Parkinson and it really made me step up my game.

“I think we’ll see that with John White now because he’s under pressure.

“I asked him for 10 per cent more and I think we saw that at Coventry on Monday night.”