SOUTHEND United defender John White is pleased to be staying with the Shrimpers.

The centre-back made 37 appearances for Blues last season.

And White is happy to have had a year long clause in his contract activated by the club.

“I’m really happy here, not just myself but my family are settled here as well,” said White.

“I really enjoyed last season.

“It was like a new lease of life for me and I want to carry that on and take that into next season.”

The Shrimpers started the previous season slowly before improving following the appointment of Chris Powell in late January.

And White is looking forward to working with Powell for a full season.

“It will be good to see the manager have a full pre-season with the lads,” said White.

“It’s never easy coming in midway through the season and trying to implement his own things knowing he’s only got what is in front of him.

“But I really enjoyed working with the manager and the way he does things so it’s something to look forward to next season.”

And White is also pleased with how Powell has helped his own game.

“The manager seems to fully appreciate what I bring to the team,” said White.

“He doesn’t try and get me to do things that aren’t me.

“He’s a positive man with great energy, drive and commitment.

“I think that shines through in his teams as well.”