Former Irish U21 international Joe Shaughnessy signs for Southend United

Southend United have announced the signing of former Republic of Ireland U21 international Joe Shaughnessy.

The Galwegian, brother of Leeds United’s Conor, has signed for the League One club on a year long deal with the option of a second having impressed manager Kevin Bond in a friendly against Millwall while on trial.

Shaughnessy joins The Shrimpers after a four year spell with St Johnstone in the Scottish Premiership, captaining the side for the last two seasons.

In total he’s coming off the back of a decade in Scotland having initially signed for Aberdeen in 2009. The defender had loan spells with Forfar Athletic and Falkirk and made over 50 league appearances for The Dons before departing for St Johnstone in 2015.

“I’m very pleased,” said Shaughnessy, speaking to the club’s website.

“After last week and playing in the friendly against Millwall I was very happy when the Manager said he wants to have me here. It’s good to get it done and to be back into training with the lads.

“I’ve been up in Scotland for 10 years and towards the end of last season and over the summer my aim was to give England a go and when the opportunity to come here became available it was perfect and it all worked out well.”

League One begins tomorrow afternoon and The Shrimpers face Coventry City away (kick-off 3pm).