JACK Bridge is on the verge of signing a new two-year deal at Southend United.

The promising midfielder, who is expected to figure at Bury on Sunday, made his Shrimpers debut against Bradford City last weekend.

And the 20-year-old is delighted to be committing his future to his home-town club.

“It’s close to being done now and I’m really happy about that,” said Bridge.

“It was a great feeling making my debut last weekend but I want to kick on from that now.

“I’ve been with Southend since I was nine and I only live around the corner from the ground, so it means a lot to me to be here.

“But the next couple of years are important ones for me now.

“I need to kick on and playing first team football as much as I can, so that’s certainly what I’m aiming for.

“Hopefully I can be involved against Bury on Sunday and can then take that into next season as well when I want to be more involved.”

Bridge, a former Eastwood School pupil, is pushing for a start in the Shrimpers’ final game of the League One season at Gigg Lane this weekend.

And Blues boss Phil Brown feels the youngster has warranted a new deal by how well he has performed in the under-21s and on loan at Chelmsford City this campaign.

“Jack has earned himself a new contract with the way he’s conducted himself this season,” said Brown.

“He’s very, very close to signing and we want him to follow in the footsteps of Jack Payne in the way he progresses next season, so we can all move forward.

“He deserves this opportunity and it’s great to see another youngster coming through the youth system.”