SOUTHEND United’s Gary Deegan is keen to avoid any close shaves against Port Vale at Roots Hall tomorrow.

The tough tackling midfielder, who sports an eye-catching beard, has played a prominent part in the Shrimpers winning four of their last five games.

And the Irishman is keen to keep the good run of results going with another three points against Port Vale.

“Spirits are high and we want to take that into tomorrow’s game to pick up another three points now,” said Deegan, 28.

“Port Vale are an unknown team to me, like many of them are at this level but I don’t really care about anyone else.

“I just want Southend to keep on winning and if we prepare properly and play like we can then I think we can beat anyone in this league.”

Blues’ recent run has taken them up to 11th in the League One table.

But they have triumphed just twice in six home games this term which has often made for an uneasy atmosphere at Roots Hall.

Shrimpers full-back Ben Coker criticised sections of the support following Blues’ last home game against Scunthorpe United.

However, fans favourite Deegan insists he loves lining up in front of the Shrimpers faithful.

“I love playing at Roots Hall,” said the fiery midfielder.

“Every time I play there the fans get right behind me and the team.

“We just need to back it up with a performance and get them on-side early doors.

“We need to play with a tempo and give them something to cheer about but this is the best rapport I’ve ever had with fans if I’m honest.

“The more they keep doing it the more they’ll get out of me so it’s a working relationship we have.”

Deegan will again be looking to take centre stage tomorrow and for more than just his appearance.

The midfielder’s lengthy beard often draws attention and so does the way he plays with his shorts unusually rolled up.

“People often say my shorts don’t fit, but they do,” laughed Deegan.

“I just roll them up to let the opposition admire the quads.

“It’s just something I do and the beard will be staying too.

“At times it does my head in, like this morning when I had granola for breakfast and it all stuck to it.

“With stuff like that in mind, I did think about going for a fresher look and getting rid of it but it seems to be quite popular so I decided to keep it.

“It’s probably my trademark now.”