Wide man Caskey, who can operate on either flank, has appeared for Reading and Conference South leaders Hornchurch since his time at White Hart Lane, but found himself one of 24 full-time players released by the Urchins last Thursday after the Bridge Avenue club’s seemingly bottomless pit of money fell around them. Some reports had linked Tilson with a move for the winger, but the 38-year-old has dismissed those thoughts today.
Speaking to the club’s official website, www.southendunited.co.uk, the Shrimpers manager said, “There is no truth in the story whatsoever. When you look at our bench and see the likes of Mark Bentley and Jay Smith in midfield it emphasises the depth of the squad. Why should I change it? I have not spoken to Darren and do not intend to as I have plenty of excellent midfielders”.
The Wickford-born gaffer failed to mention any wide players in particular, but his lack of reference to current incumbents Mark Gower and Carl Pettefer, as well as back-ups in Jimmy Corbett and on-loan Michael Kightly at Farnborough Town, hints at a happiness with his fifth-placed side in League Two. “Currently I am more than happy with my squad”, he continued, before revealing, “there is great togetherness with the players and management”. Caskey’s elder brother, Jamie, played for Blues’ youth side during the 1980s.
Meanwhile, forward Drewe Broughton will continue to ply his trade with League Two rivals Rushden & Diamonds for another month, as mooted first here on TLG. The 25-year-old has extended his stay at Nene Park, having netted a hat-trick in his fourth appearance for the Northamptonshire side. He misses their FA Cup first round clash with Bradford City, which he may have been withdrawn from anyway, due to suspension.
Robert Craven
www.thelittlegazette.com