Defender Leon Cort has given Southend United a huge boost ahead of tomorrow's Roots Hall clash with promotion seeking Scunthorpe by pledging his future to the Third Division club.
New deal -- for Blues defender Leon Cort. Picture: STEVE O'CONNELL 4PF2H13C
And Shrimpers boss Rob Newman also revealed that fellow contract rebel, 25-year-old midfielder Kevin Maher, could follow suit today.
Both players refused new one-year deals at the end of February and Newman said he was delighted by what he hopes will be a double U-turn.
"Leon's decision is a massive plus and I think everyone connected with the club will be pleased that he is staying," he said.
"I was very disappointed when Leon turned down a one-year contract offer last month.
"But he has now told me he wants to get himself sorted out and commit his future to Southend United.
"It is great news as Leon is still only 22 years old, has played very well this season and can only get stronger and stronger.
"We are also close to coming to an agreement with Kevin, who had always indicated that he was happy to stay. And I hope to get him signed up shortly."
Goalkeeper Darryl Flahavan, 24, is the only player who has not accepted a contract offer.
And Newman added: "I've casually spoken to Darryl again and the door is still open for him as well if he changes his mind."
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Published Friday, March 22, 2002
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