JOHN White is determined to make more memories with Southend United after committing his future to the club.

The defender, who has been with Blues since 2013, has signed a one-year contract at Roots Hall with the option of a further year.

And the 32-year-old is pleased to be staying with the Shrimpers.

“I’m here because I want to make more memories,” said White.

“I want to be at a successful club and part of a successful team.

“Pretty much straight after the last game I made it clear I wanted to stay because I love the place.

I’m delighted it’s all done now and I can concentrate on football again.

“It’s not ideal when things take as long as they have but I understand that’s the way it goes and I’m just looking forward to concentrating on my football and enjoying my time.”

White has now made 229 appearances for the Shrimpers and played a key part in them staying in League One last season, scoring in the final day win against Sunderland.

And the defender immediately made it clear he was keen to stay.

“Pretty much straight after that last game against Sunderland I spoke to the chairman and made my intentions clear that I ideally would really like to stay here and extend my time here,” said White.

“I love the place, I’m happy, my family are happy here and I just want to carry on and do some good things this season.”

Blues just avoided relegation last term.

But White is hopeful Kevin Bond’s team can achieve far more this season. 

“I’ve been here a fair while now and there is so much more we can do,” said the defender. 

“For myself personally I’m looking to play as many games as I can.

“There’s going to be a lot of strength in the squad and there’s a chance I might not play every game.

“But I want to be in and around it as much as I can, contributing to the team and helping where possible.”

White will also be fit to feature despite breaking his arm in his last appearance against Sunderland.

The defender saw out the closing stages of the crucial contest playing through the pain.

But he will be available to take on Billericay Town in Tuesday night's pre-season friendly.

“I’m available for the game and I’m looking forward to it,” said White, who did not feature for the Shrimpers at Reading on Saturday.

“I will play with a splint on my arm at least for now.”

White and winger Stephen McLaughlin are now the only players still at the club who featured in Blues’ matchday squad for the 2015 League Two play-off final against Wycombe Wanderers at Wembley.