SOUTHEND United manager Phil Brown has opened contract talks with David Worrall.

The winger, who looks certain to start at Walsall tomorrow, has worked his way back into the team for the Shrimpers’ last three matches.

And Brown is keen for Worrall to sign a new deal when his current contract expires at the end of the season.

“Dave is very important and I would like to keep him here,” said the Blues boss.

“He’s played an important part and has made a positive contribution whenever he’s played.

“He’s found himself in a different type of role just lately, playing as a wing back and he’s taken to it like a fish to water.

“He’s doing well defensively and is always a threat going forward.”

Worrall, who joined Blues at the start of last season, has been in and out of the team this term and was linked with a loan switch back to Bury in

But Brown still feels the 25-year-old has a future at Roots Hall.

“Dave’s a player who can help get us out of this league and they are the ones I want here at this football club,” said the Shrimpers chief.

“The talks so far have been positive too.”