SOUTHEND United manager Kevin Bond insists the Shrimpers are determined to keep hold of Dru Yearwood.

Blues opted to reject a £200,000 offer from Rotherham United earlier this month. And Bond is keen to keep the 19-year-old midfielder at Roots Hall.

“Dru is a fantastic young player,” said Bond.

“A lot of time and effort has gone into him at this football club and everyone wants to see the fruits of that labour.”

Yearwood has made 62 appearances for the Shrimpers’ first team since coming through the youth ranks but was unable to find his best form last term.

Despite that, Yearwood has attracted interest from elsewhere although Blues have denied reports of an offer from Middlesbrough.