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Blues chairman Ron Martin explained to the clubs official website: "We have decided to withdraw the offer made to Nicky Nicolau". Martin continued "Nicky was offered a new deal five weeks ago but for the past three weeks there has been a lapse in him agreeing a new deal. I believe that that Swindon have offered him a slightly better package than we did and I expect him to be unveiled by them in the next day or two."
However, despite Nicolau’s departure, Blues Supremo Martin did at least confirm that the Seasiders had a replacement in the pipeline "We have held talks with another player who the manager feels will advance the club to a greater position than Nicky would have. We’re now talking to three new players and we expect to have good news this week."
Nicolau began his Southend United career one week after the LDV Vans Trophy final defeat to Blackpool against Carlisle United in the 2003/04 season, when he was signed on loan from Arsenal by Steve Tilson. Nicolau made an instant impression with his excellent touch and equally good passing ability, and signed permanently with the club for the start of the 2004/05 season. However, despite starting the opening six matches of the season, Nicolau’s defensive inexperience was exposed and the Cypriot was dropped from the starting eleven.
However, Nicolau made a comeback to the side and put in some excellent performances on the left wing during the second half of the season, forcing Mark Gower to wait on the subs bench. After helping the Blues make the play-off final there were glowing references for the youngster once more. Nicky will be remembered for two things. Firstly his goal direct from a corner which helped Southend reach their second LDV Vans Trophy final in two years, and secondly his corner which resulted in a Freddy Eastwood goal in the play-off final against Lincoln City (ed. What about winning a penalty in the playoff semi!?).
Nicolau made 39 appearances and scored 2 goals whilst in a Blue and white shirt and everybody at TLG would like to thank Nicky for his efforts, and wish him the best of luck for the future.
By Adam Duffill