JAMES Dunne insists he jumped at the chance to join Southend United.

The experienced midfielder has signed a two year deal with the Shrimpers.

And the 31-year-old, who has made 450 appearances in his career, cannot wait to be reunited with Phil Brown at Roots Hall.

“I’m buzzing to sign for a big club like Southend and to work with the gaffer again, so I’m buzzing to get it done.

“It’s a lovely stadium and there are lovely facilities so I can’t wait to get started.

“Obviously I’ve worked with the gaffer before at Swindon and I know what he’s like.

“I enjoyed my time playing under him and where the club wants to go all sold it for me.”

Dunne lined up for Barnet in the National League last season.

But he jumped at the chance to join Blues.

“As soon as I heard there was interest I was buzzing to meet up with the gaffer and have a chat,” said Dunne.

“When I spoke to him last Monday he told me his plans and I couldn’t wait to get it done.

“With a club the size of Southend that was in League One touching the Championship not long ago we have to be aiming for promotion.

“What has happened since has not been nice, but hopefully we can get the club on the up again and promotion has to be the target this season.”

And Dunne is keen to help make that happen.

“I’m a front foot player, workman-like,” said the midfielder.

“I’m not going to set fireworks off but I’m a hard worker and I like to get on the ball and pass it.”