A TRIO of Southend United stars have signed new contracts.

Skipper Nathan Ralph, defender Jason Demetriou and wing-back Jack Bridge all signed non-contracts terms with the Shrimpers in the summer.

But, after the club's transfer embargo was lifted, all three have been able to put pen to paper on deals, much to the delight of boss Kevin Maher.

He said: “I’m delighted to have Ralphy, Bridgey and JD tied down on new contracts, they are all fully deserved.

“Their commitment has been first class when it would have been easy for them to move on.

"They have shown incredible loyalty to stay with us on non-contract terms and they’re going to play an important part for the team moving forward.”

Ralph and Bridge have signed contracts which expire in June 2025 while Demetriou's deal is until the end of the season. 

Ralph has skippered the Shrimpers this season and is delighted to have committed his future to the club.

“I’m really happy to get the contract sorted," said the 30-year-old.

"Obviously it’s been going on for quite a while now so it’s nice that we’re finally in a position to get it over the line. 

“It’s exciting times for the club at the moment too.

"We’ve seen a lot of low points over the past few years but it really feels like we’re on the up now.

"Change won’t happen overnight of course, but we’re definitely moving in the right direction and I’m looking forward to where it takes us.”

Wing-back Bridge echoed those sentiments and is pleased to be staying with his home-town club.

“I’m so pleased to be able to finally sign my contract and I’m really happy to be staying at a club that is very close to my heart," said Bridge.

"As a local boy I came back here to get the football club back to where it belongs.

"I believe we can now look forward to a bright future and hopefully bringing the good times back to Roots Hall.”

Demetriou has combined playing with coaching at Blues this season.

But the club's longest serving player is also happy to have signed his contract.

 "I'm delighted to sign a new deal here," said Demetriou.

"I've loved doing the coaching just as much as I love playing in this team and I'll continue to be ready for whenever the gaffer needs me.”