Friday 7 March 2014 17:16, UK
Southend midfielder Ryan Leonard has put pen to paper on a new deal which will keep him at Roots Hall until the summer of 2017.
Leonard, 21, has made 70 league appearance for the Shrimpers since joining the League Two side from Plymouth Argyle in 2011. Upon signing the three-and-a-half year contract, Leonard told the club's official website: "I'm delighted to have signed a new contract because I've really enjoyed my time with Southend." Leonard moved to the club as a right-back but has since become a holding midfield player and has thrived in his new position. He added: "I've had the best season of my career so far and have managed to keep my place in the starting line-up in a position I only really moved to under the new manager in the summer. "I want to continue my development and I feel that Southend United is the perfect place for me to do that." United boss Phil Brown was delighted to secure Leonard's signature. He said: "Ryan has been a big player for us this season and has gone from a right-back when he signed to an important figure in the middle of midfield. "He's got a big future in the game and I'm delighted that he's going to be staying with us for the future."
