Predictably, the news on six of the current squad concerns those most likely to feature in 2004/5, and those that undoubtedly would not have done. Goalkeeper Ryan Robinson (who made just two appearances for the first team, against Hull City in a 3-2 defeat and Lincoln City in a 2-0 home loss), has been allowed to leave, as has once-popular winger Steven Clark, who was not likely to be a part of Tilson and Paul Brush’s plans.
Tilson said of the pair to the club’s official website, www.southendunited.co.uk, “They’re good lads and I’m sure they’ll get hooked up with another club, as for the rest, they’re in on Friday and they should know by then”. Clark made 61 appearances in all for the Shrimpers, scoring twice – at Lincoln two years ago and then a wonder strike against Queens Park Rangers in the 4-0 LDV area semi-final annihilation of the Second Division side this January. TLG would like to wish both Ryan and Steven the very best of luck in the future, whoever they join, and the latter particularly was always available for a word.
Meanwhile, 25-goal top scorer Leon Constantine, club captain Kevin Maher and imposing central defender Leon Cort have all been offered two year deals, taking them to the end of the 2005/6 campaign, and the club’s centenary celebrations. Jay Smith is set to join those three and the other nine players already under contract for next season subject to him agreeing to a deal that will see him handed twelve months, with another year in addition should he feature in 25 matches next season.
And finally, Derby County utility man Lewis Hunt is still at Roots Hall at the moment. The youngster, who is due to return to Pride Park now the season is over, has been offered a one-year deal with the Shrimpers, and Tilson is currently waiting to hear back from the confident talent. The Wickford-born manager added that he would like to bring in at least three more players to compliment his current crop, with Arsenal shotstopper Craig Holloway thought to be high on the list.
Robert Craven
www.thelittlegazette.com