WILL Atkinson will look to push his claims for an extended contract when Southend United host Yeovil Town at Roots Hall on Tuesday night.

The midfielder’s current deal expires towards the end of January.

But Atkinson is eager to stay with the Shrimpers.

“I want to stay for the duration,” said Atkinson.

“I’ve come back and I want to see it through.

“My contract is up on January 24 I think it is so I’m hoping to play well and impress.

“But it’s all about helping the team and getting more good results.”

Atkinson, who returned to the Shrimpers for a second spell in August, impressed in Saturday’s 1-0 win at Weymouth.

And the 33-year-old, who has started five of the last seven games, feels he is now benefiting from playing more frequently.

“I’ve been training hard and I’ve got a little run in the team,” said Atkinson.

“I’m feeling the benefits of that and Saturday was a pleasing result.

“In tough conditions we showed good character and we will need that tonight now too.”

Yeovil visit Roots Hall sitting 11th in the National League standings.

And Atkinson will be looking to build on one of this season’s most unusual assists as his long clearance from a Weymouth free-kick ultimately led to Matt Dennis’ winner at the weekend.

“I showed great vision and I thought it was a great ball,” laughed Atkinson.

“I put it on a plate for him really but the win was the most important thing and now we’re looking forward to another tough game against Yeovil.”