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The former Aston Villa trainee Smith confirmed that he had not shown any intention whatsoever of leaving the seaside, again reiterating that he wants to stay "Anyone who would listen knows that I want to stay; hopefully my contract should be sorted as soon as possible."
Smith has been at the club since way back in August 2002, when he was signed on a loan deal from Aston Villa. However, after impressing just about everybody connected with the club, Jay was signed permanently on a free transfer from the Villains in December of that year, and has since become a fan favourite, making 56 appearances. Smithy's best moment in a blue-and-white shirt undoubtedly came when he scored a last gasp winner against rivals Canvey Island in the FA cup first round replay back in the 2003/04 season.
And at the end of the interview, Smith left a parting shot to leave Shrimpers fans with their minds rested "Leaving the club is the last thing I want to do – it would take a lot for me to leave Southend."
As far as the contract goes itself, Jay confirmed that negotiations are nearly complete, "We're not that far away from signing now, but I don't want to be involved in the negotiations, all I want to do is play football." As a keen Jay Smith fan I would just like to wish him luck for next season where ever he is…but let's just hope it's at Roots Hall!
On other topics, Steve Tilson has confirmed he was chasing an experienced striker for a six-figure fee. The 38-year-old said "We have had feedback from the player's agent and we know that he would be interested in coming here." All we know is that it will not be Grant Holt, who has just signed a new contract with Rochdale.
By Adam Duffill