CRAIG Easton wants to stay at Southend United and help the club push for promotion next season.

The 32-year-old, who skippered the side last term, will soon be out of contract at Roots Hall.

And the midfielder is keen to remain at the club.

“I want to stay at Southend,” said Easton. “I think there is the nucleus of a really good side here and certainly something for the gaffer to build on.

“We do need to be more consistent but I think there’s a good chance of going for promotion and I want to be a part of that.”

Easton was one of 17 signings made by Blues boss Paul Sturrock last summer.

He made 36 appearances in the centre of the park and was encouraged to see the new-look side finish 13 in the League Two table.

“It was definitely a season of progress,” said the Scotsman.

“I think the manager had about four players when he first came to the club, so to go from that to finishing in mid-table is impressive.

“There is slight disappointment that we didn’t do a bit better, especially when we were just a point outside the play-offs when we beat Barnet in February.

“But it does all bode well for next season.”

FULL STORY IN THURSDAY'S ECHO