SOUTHEND United striker Theo Robinson rejected the chance to join Colchester United on loan.

The 29-year-old, who has made just two League starts for the Shrimpers so far this season, was also wanted by his former club Lincoln City.

But Robinson ended up remaining at Roots Hall, much to the frustration of all concerned including Blues chairman Ron Martin.

“Lincoln came in for Theo late on Monday but they didn’t come back until late on Tuesday,” explained Martin.

“By that time Chris Powell had taken a call from Colchester United and I had phoned their chairman Robbie Cowling.

“Robbie and I agreed terms and Chris thought it would be an ideal move for us to still be able to monitor how Theo was playing.

“He also wouldn’t have to move but Theo wanted to go to back to Lincoln.”

Robinson was with the Imps before joining Blues last January.

But, having already agreed a deal with Colchester, Martin would not allow the striker to head back to Sincil Bank.

“Lincoln did come back with an improved offer which was better than Colchester’s but I was not prepared to renege on my deal with Robbie Cowling who I had given my word to,” said Martin.

“It ended up being frustrating for everyone.

“I spoke to Danny Cowley (Lincoln manager) about five times during the day so I know he was disappointed and Colchester were disappointed because they wanted Theo to go there too.

“If truth be known I’m not sure Theo wanted to go out on loan as he would prefer to fight for his place at Southend but he might find it hard now we’ve signed two more strikers.

“But this was a wasted opportunity for all and it could have been avoided if the Lincoln chairman had called me sooner.”

Robinson has scored four goals in 40 games since returning to Roots Hall but 31 of those appearances have come as a substitute.