SOUTHEND United have opened contract talks with right-back Elvis Bwomono, Echosport understands.

The 21-year-old's current deal expires at the end of the season.

But Blues have already started negotiations to try and keep the defender at the club.

Bwomono came through the youth ranks at Roots Hall and was voted player of the year last term after producing a number of consistent performances.

The defender, who was called up by Uganda for the first time last season, has been with Blues since the age of 15 after being released by Queens Park Rangers and has now made 89 appearances for the club.