Stevenage have extended the loan deal of Southend United striker Lee Barnard for a further month.

It had looked increasingly likely the former Southampton man would not renew his initial one-month loan spell beyond Boro’s home League Two clash against Morecambe on Saturday, following Southend boss Phil Brown’s desire to recall Barnard.

However, Stevenage boss Graham Westley announced on Thursday that an agreement had been reached to renew his temporary stay.

Westley said: “Phil (Brown) is a very experienced manager and I am sure that Southend’s form had something to do with it.

“He knows that (Lee) Barnard wants to be playing football. His own side have done well without him and I think it is an intelligent move.

“Why have an experienced lad sitting on the sidelines when he could be at another club playing games?

“If and when Southend ask for him back, he will be in the mood for scoring goals and in good form so it is a good situation for both parties.”

The 30-year-old has struck three times since joining Boro at the start of this month, including two goals in a 5-1 drubbing of Cheltenham Town 12 days ago.

Speaking to the Comet following last weekend’s 1-0 defeat at Northampton Town, Barnard indicated he had enjoyed his time at the Lamex Stadium and it would stand him in good stead for the rest of the season.

Barnard is likely to continue up front for Boro against Morecambe and will also provide options in the busy month of December, with four games in 15 days over the Christmas period.