Former Irish u21 international Kevin Maher has decided to stay with Southend United for another season. The 23-year-old midfielder-cum-defender has signed a new one-year deal with the Shrimpers because manager Alan Little promised that he was in his plans for the coming campaign.

Maher began his career with Tottenham, signing on professional terms in 1995. But after over two years of frustration at White Hart Lane he was released by the London club.

Southend came in and offered him a contract and since then he has established himself as an important part of their defence. He has played 84 first-class games since he signed in January 1998, scoring six goals in the process.

Kevin said: "I did get a bit of a rough ride from some of the fans last season, but hopefully I can put that behind me and start afresh."