Mark Salter today paid tribute to Southend United and its fans for giving him a crack at professional football.
The rookie striker made 12 appearances for Blues, finding the net once, following a free transfer move from non-league minnows Frome Town last October.
Happy days - Mark Salter (right) celebrates his goal against Leyton Orient with defender Leon Cort
And even though the 22-year-old's Third Division love affair has been cut short following his Roots Hall release, he said he had no regrets.
"I've enjoyed every minute of my time at Southend and I'm just grateful to have got the chance," said Salter, who has moved back to his native west country home in Yeovil.
"It was disappointing to be released because once you've had a taste of the full-time game it is something you don't want to give up.
"I've definitely got better as a player during my six months at Roots Hall, with my touch and fitness much improved.
"And I'd like to thank the fans and the club for their support as it was great coming up here and playing for them.
"I was surprised how many games I got for Southend and I will always be grateful to the old manager Rob Newman for giving me a chance here."
Salter said he had been contacted by a number of non-league sides and was interested in an approach from Dr Martens League Premier Division outfit Bath City.
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Published Tuesday, May 27, 2003
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