NORTHERN Ireland international Adam Thompson has put pen to paper on a three-year deal with Bury after parting company with Southend United.

The 24-year-old central defender, who began has career at Watford, has played a key role in Southend's rise from League Two to the verges of the play-off places in League One last season.

Shakers boss Lee Clark says he was impressed by Thompson's performance against Bury on the final day of the season, when Phil Brown's men beat them at Roots Hall but were pipped to the final play-off place by Millwall.

And he was quick to act when the player decided not to renew his contract at Southend.

“I am delighted to have signed Adam," he said. "He's a fantastic player who is used to playing at the top end of League One, having just missed out on promotion to the Championship with Southend United.

“I have seen Adam operate at close quarters this season and he was very impressive. It's that impressive form which has led to his call-up to the Northern Ireland squad.

“Adam is a fantastic signing for us. I am thrilled to have signed a young, talented, international player who is at the age where we can still help him develop and he can help us improve.”

Thompson has been called up by Northern Ireland for this month's friendly against New Zealand and World Cup qualifier in Azerbaijan.

He will link up with Michael O’Neill’s squad and hope to add to his two previous caps, having made his debut against Scotland in February 2011.

The new Bury signing has also represented Northern Ireland at under 17s, u18s and u21s.