Southend United manager Alan Little has urged three of his young out-of-contract players to commit themselves to the Seasiders.

Defenders Chris Perkins, Leo Roget and midfielder Kevin Maher have been offered new deals by the Shrimpers and are currently mulling over their futures.

All three are under the age of 24, preventing them from leaving Roots Hall on a free transfer under the Bosman Ruling, and Little wants their services secured.

"We want these three lads to stay with us and I'm hoping to get some positive feedback from them soon as they have a part to play here," said Little.

"It's time for these players to progress and we want them to remain at Southend and continue to develop their careers at Roots Hall.

"But they've got to decide what they want to do and whether they are happy with the terms we have offered them.

"The next move is down to the players, who have another two weeks to make up their minds about us."

But Little added that the trio would instantly be put on week-to-week deals if they can't come to a contractual agreement with Blues.

"None of them can go anywhere as they are too young to leave Roots Hall on a Bosman and we will expect them to continue giving their all for the club," the manager said.

"However, they can still join other teams during the summer for trials in the hope of securing a move away from Roots Hall.

"But I wouldn't advise them to try this as it will interrupt their pre-season routine and hit their fitness.

"I just want everything resolved as quickly as possible so I know where we're going next season and what players I've got in my squad."

Little also confirmed that he still had not heard from the Blues' other out-of-contract star to be offered a new deal at Roots Hall, player of the year Nathan Jones.

The left-sided defender is 27 years old and can leave Southend on a free transfer if he wishes, with the Seasider's Third Division rivals Brighton allegedly chasing his signature.

"Nathan's in the same boat as the other three players and still has a fortnight to mull over his options. I'm still waiting to hear from him," Little added.

Alan Little - wants his out of contract young trio to re-sign for Southend United

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