SHAUN Hobson has been voted Southend United's player of the year.

In an Echosport poll, Hobson picked up 52 per cent of the 1,872 votes cast to finish top of the pile.

The 22-year-old joined Blues from Bournemouth at the start of last season and produced a number of consistent performances at the heart of the back four.

In total, Hobson made 48 appearances and hit the back of the net twice.

Experienced defender John White finished second in the poll with 25 per cent of the votes.