MICHAEL Turner insists he jumped at the chance to sign for Southend United.

The experienced defender has put pen to paper on a one-year deal at the Shrimpers with the option of a second season.

And Turner is delighted to have joined.

“I’m really pleased to have got everything done and to be a Southend player,” said the 33-year-old centre-back.

“I know Southend were very close to the play-offs last season so promotion will be our objective this season and I know they also have some great players in the squad.

“The move also means I can come back home with my family and obviously I already know the manager as well.”

Turner played under Blues boss Phil Brown while at Hull City.

And he is already enjoying being reunited with the 58-year-old.

“The manager was key in me coming here,” said Turner.

“I enjoyed playing for him at Hull and we were very successful too.

“I liked the way he went about things and he’s another main reason why I’m happy to be at Southend.”

However, Brown will not be the only familiar face for Turner at Roots Hall as he also played alongside Shrimpers skipper Anton Ferdinand while at Sunderland.

And Turner is looking forward to reforming their partnership.

“I can’t remember how many times I played next to Anton at Sunderland but it was definitely quite a few and I always enjoyed doing so,” said Turner.

“He’s club captain here and I hope to play alongside him quite frequently again this season.”

Turner is also hungry to impress after enduring a frustrating final season with Norwich City.

The defender - who has played more than 430 games during his career - failed to start a single League game for the Canaries last season.

And he is therefore eager to shine for the Shrimpers.

“Last year was horrible for me being out of favour at a club,” said Turner.

“But this is a fresh start for me and it’s what I needed.

“I’m excited about the move and the season ahead but right now I’m focused on getting back to pre-season training.

“It was good going to Spain for a week and getting to know all the lads.

“There are a lot of very good players here and I want to be playing a lot of games to help the team do well.”