Leon Cort immediately set his sights on winning promotion after committing himself to a new one-year contract with Southend United.

The 23-year-old was joined in putting pen-to-paper by Roots Hall striker Tes Bramble and midfielder Neil Jenkins.

And the big defender is already predicting a successful campaign for Shrimpers manager Steve Wignall's men.

"I'm really excited about next year as I think we are going to do really well," said Cort, who was voted Blues' Player of the Season.

"I have spoken to the manager and he has got some good ideas and plans for next season, which I'm looking forward to playing my part in.

"The boss has come here to get Southend promoted and he isn't prepared to muck around as he recently proved by releasing a lot of players.

"It's always sad to see a lot of your team mates leave the club, but something had to be done because we weren't good enough last season.

"There will certainly be plenty of different faces around here when we return for training after the summer -- it's going to be a whole new-look team.

"But I think the changes that the manager is going to make will push us towards promotion next season."

Bramble, who will be 23 this summer, has inked a two-year deal and Blues boss Wignall is confident the hitman can add to the 11 goals he blasted last term.

"Tes can be a big asset for this club and play a major part in our plans," he said.

Jenkins, 21, who can play at left-back or in midfield, has also accepted a new 12 month deal.

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Published Friday, May 16, 2003

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