STEPHEN McLaughlin has expressed his joy after signing a new three-year contract at Southend United.

The Irishman - who has been with Blues since 2015 - has committed his future to the club on the eve of the forthcoming League One season.

And McLaughlin is delighted to have put pen to paper on the deal.

“I’m very happy to have signed the contract,” said the winger.

“It’s been going on for a few months but I’m glad it’s all done now.

“I’m already settled here but now I know my future I can really look forward to the next few years and what it holds for me.

“The club approached me in January to begin with when I was injured.

“When the club comes to you to open talks when you’re injured and coming into the last year of your contract they obviously value you and for them to put trust in me like that was really good of them.

“It’s perfect for me because my fiance is settled here too and we’re getting married next year so we know where we are going to be and things are looking up.”

McLaughlin scored seven goals in 38 appearances last season and has now played 65 times for the club in total.

And Blues boss Phil Brown hopes to have the winger available for Saturday’s trip to Cambridge United.

“We’re still hopeful Macca will be fit for the start of the season and that he might also be able to play at the weekend,” said Brown.

“His foot was in a pot to begin with but it’s out now and he’s making good progress, which is obviously good news.”