Southend United boss Steve Tilson has explained his decision to let Luke Guttridge leave - claiming the player's heart was no longer at the club.

The 24-year-old midfielder has signed for League One strugglers Leyton Orient until the end of the season.

And Tilson confirmed it was all down to the 24-year-old's commitment.

"I only want people here who want to play for Southend United and at the end of the day I just didn't think that Luke's heart was in it," said the Shrimpers chief.

""He wasn't in the team but you have to be patient - like Matt Harrold and Simon Francis have been - and your chance will come.

"It's hard sometimes and I just thought it would be better for Luke to leave. He's been a good player for us and I wish him well."

Ironically, Alan McCormack - Guttridge's replacement in the Southend team - limped out of the action at Birmingham City on Tuesday night with a thigh problem.

But Tilson hopes the tough tackler will be fit to face Stoke City on Saturday.

"Alan has been superb for us since coming back from Preston North End," he added.

"It would be a big boost to have him fit for the weekend and hopefully he will be."

Guttridge scored five goals in 63 league appearances for Blues after joining from Cambridge United in March 2005.

He also made nine cup appearances for the Shrimpers during his time at Roots Hall.

BLUES have sent three of their youth team scholars - defenders Jack Absolon and Carl Patten, plus midfielder Lee Smyth - on loan to Conference South Bishop's Stortford.