SOUTHEND United manager Phil Brown will offer John White a new contract.

The defender made his 150th appearance for the Shrimpers in Friday’s 4-0 win at Chesterfield.

And Brown is keen to keep the reliable defender at Roots Hall beyond the end of his current contract which expires at the end of the season.

“John is an extremely valuable member of the squad and I’ve already addressed the subject of a new contract for him,” said Brown.

“I’ve worked with John for four years now and it’s been a successful period.

“He’s done a great job when he’s been asked to play in any of the positions across the defence and I actually think he could play in a sitting defensive midfield role too because he’s technically good enough to do so.

“He was excellent at left-back on Friday and congratulations must go to him for making his 150th appearance for the club.

“He’s a fantastic professional and would be an asset for any club in the Championship or League One.”

Despite Brown’s words of praise, White’s place in the starting line-up could be under threat for Monday's clash with MK Dons if Ben Coker returns from a knee injury.

The left-back had originally been expected to be out for the rest of the season but has recovered quicker than anticipated and could be back in the squad tomorrow.

Blues have also extended the loan spell of goalkeeper Christian Walton from Brighton & Hove Albion for another seven days, meaning the shot-stopper can figure against MK Dons and at Shrewsbury Town on Saturday.