JOHN White has signed a new contract at Southend United, keeping him at the club until the end of the season.

The 34-year-old defender has been with Blues on a permanent basis since 2013.

And White is thrilled to be remaining at Roots Hall. 

"It’s so nice to get it out the way because now I can fully concentrate on everything that needs to be done here," said White. 

"We’ve got a big battle on our hands and I think it needs everyone to be fully focussed and committed to do what we need to do and turn things around.

"I’m so pleased to get it done and like I said it allows me to focus 110 per cent on the battle ahead to get us out of this."

The Shrimpers sit bottom of the League Two table after suffering four defeats in succession.

And White is keen to play his part in helping Blues work their way out of trouble.

"I’m fighting fit again, other than the little blip at the weekend where I had a strange numbness in my foot from a tackle, otherwise everything else is feeling good and I feel like I’m getting stronger every week," said White.

"I’m just fully focussed on getting the team out of where it is now and into those safety positions and moving on from there.

"We need to come together more than we ever have done to put things right. We’re a tight unit with the players and staff and we need to show that.

"I’m delighted that I’m able to still bring something to the table for the club and give my services and support to the team, staff and fans of the club.

"I want to be able to help get this club back to where it should be."