Deegan eyeing long-term stay

Southend newcomer Gary Deegan says he is hoping for a long-term stay at Roots Hall after joining the club on a three-month deal.

The 25-year-old, who was on trial over the summer, has over 100 professional appearances under his belt with Northampton, Hibernian and Coventry and he feels his new club is the right place for him to continue learning his trade. Midfielder Deegan told the club's website: "Southend United is a very good club and I'm very happy to have signed, initially for three months. "My aim is to try and impress the manager, my team-mates and the fans during my time here and earn a longer contract. "I came down on a trial basis and I'm pleased with how things have gone. The manager has taken to my style of play and I'm delighted. "It's a very good club, pushing at the right end of the division. I will work hard in training to try and push for a start and then hold down my place." The Irishman did not play in his new side's weekend draw with Carlisle in Sky Bet League Two and he hopes to catch up with his match-fitness as soon as possible. He added: "I'm working my way back to fitness in training. Hopefully I will get a few games behind closed doors under my belt to really kick on. "It would be great to be in the squad for Saturday's game. I'd like to think I will bring lots of energy, a good tempo and aggression to the team, while trying to get us playing good football." Breaking news, transfer gossip, line ups and goal alerts from your football club - delivered direct to your mobile. Sign up for Sky Sports Alerts