Southend United’s off-field woes hindered them from finishing in a playoff spot in the Vanarama National League last season.
They were unable to bring in any new recruits after being placed under a transfer embargo in September, meaning they lacked squad depth at the business end of the season.
The Shrimpers, who finished in eighth place, narrowly missed out on the play-offs and were two points off seventh-placed Bromley. Due to the club’s uncertainty, a number of players could be on the move this summer, but who could earn themselves a move elsewhere?
Jack Bridge
Jack Bridge was one of Southend’s star players last season and has been ever since his arrival at Roots Hall in the summer of 2021. He played in all but four National League games and played over 3,000 minutes last season. Bridge is also very versatile and mainly features at left wing-back in Southend’s 3-5-2 system, but he can also play in more advanced roles in the forward line.
The 27-year-old has already been linked to moves elsewhere in recent times. Notts County had a strong interest in Bridge, while League Two outfit Gillingham also wanted his services.
The Shrimpers’ hand may be forced to sell some of their key players this summer and Bridge could be one of them.
Gus Scott-Morriss
An England C international, Gus Scott-Morriss was superb for Southend last season. He arrived from National League South side Hemel Hempstead Town and it was a very shrewd addition, making 35 appearances last season. Scott-Morriss made a very good impression on his England C debut, being a real threat with his crossing ability – especially in the first half.
He featured as a right-wing back and kept former Cypriot international Jason Demetriou out of the team for the majority of the campaign. Maher chose to sign a number of players plying their trade in the sixth tier, and Scott-Morriss in particular has been an example of clever recruitment from that level.
At the age of 26, Scott-Morriss still has a bright future ahead. His performances have improved massively since returning to full-time football and many clubs could look at him as an attacking right-back option this summer.
Cav Miley
Cav Miley was the Shrimpers’ standout performer last season, picking up the Player of the Season award to cap off a superb debut season in South-East Essex. He also claimed the goal of the season award with his last-minute against Torquay United in February.
The ex-Eastleigh captain was a stalwart in central midfield, only missing two National League fixtures. Out of all of the additions Maher made to his side last summer, the 27-year-old has certainly had the biggest effect on results in a positive way.
As said with Bridge and Scott-Morris, the future remains uncertain for the majority of the Southend squad – as is the case with Miley. A Football League outfit may want to take a chance on him but only time will tell as clubs begin searching for new recruits.
But which Southend United player would you like to see at your club?
