Hunt was former boss Steve Wignall’s last signing for the Seasiders, bringing the Derby County man in initially on a one-month loan deal. Tilson himself instigated an extension to the end of the current campaign for the 21-year-old in late November after an impressive start to his Southend career, and now the Wickford-born manager is hoping to secure a permanent deal.
He said of the versatile defender, who can also play in the centre of the park, and Pettefer, “They’re two good players and I will be talking to the chairman soon as I definitely want to offer them something for next year”. He continued to offer this appraisal, “They’ve both done well since signing for us and hopefully they will be interested in staying here for longer.”
One stumbling block in Hunt’s case is that he still has a year remaining on his contract at Pride Park, and despite making 27 appearances for Blues’ first team, he may be summonsed back by George Burley’s side. Tilson was keen to point out his strengths though, saying, “Lewis can play in a variety of positions. He’s comfortable in defence and midfield and that’s a big bonus. He’s good on the ball and has settled in well with us.” Should the Rams seek to continue lowering their wage bill, Hunt may be allowed to leave in the summer for a nominal fee.
Taplow-born Pettefer has no such problems. He is out of contract in the summer, and had Exeter City stayed up last season he may well have joined the Grecians after enjoying a 37-game stay there. 13 clashes into his Roots Hall career, the 23-year-old is eager to settle by the seaside, “There’s quite a good chance of me signing here”, he told the Echo. “I have really enjoyed it at Southend and have been impressed by what is here. They play good football and should be much higher up the table.”
The feeling is mutual at the club for the man who won the TLG Man-of-the-Match award in the last fixture, the 4-2 win over Scunthorpe United. Tilson commented, “Carl too is a good footballer. He can play on either flank and really does work his socks off in every game he plays. He’s done well and it would be great if we could sort something out so that he and Lewis would both still be with us next season”.
Meanwhile, talks are also set to open with 22-goal top scorer Leon Constantine, who is out of contract in the summer. The rangy forward, who can also operate on the right-wing, has openly declared his intentions to open negotiations, and the Shrimpers must act quickly if they are to retain the services of the crowd favourite, who has hit three braces in his last four matches.
Robert Craven
www.thelittlegazette.com