Released Southend United right-back Mark Beard today looked back on his second Roots Hall stint with mixed emotions.

The 28-year-old was handed a free transfer at the end of the season and is now hunting for a new club, with Conference sides Farnborough and Woking keen on his signature.

"It's the second time I've been freed by Blues and at least the manager told me this time, not like four years ago when Alan Little sent me a letter," said Beard.

"The way I was treated before left a bitter taste and it was nice of Rob to give me the opportunity to come back and continue my career with Southend from where I left off.

"I knew Southend had to make cutbacks this summer and it had occurred to me that I might be one of the people who was released.

"When the old manager Rob Newman got the sack I found myself out of the side, but I played the last few games of the season under the new boss Steve Wignall and I thought I'd done alright.

"But these things happen in football and you just have to get on with it and try to find a new club.

"It's a great club and there are a lot of good people at Roots Hall. I hope they do well next season."

Beard started off at Millwall, scoring in a shock FA Cup win at Arsenal, before moving north to join Sheffield United.

Former Blues boss Alvin Martin brought him to Second Division Southend in 1997 on loan from the Blades, a move which became permanent at the end of the season.

The committed performer remained with the Seasiders, who had slipped into Division Three at this point, for another two seasons before being discarded by Alan Little.

Published Thursday, June 5, 2003

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