Southend United boss David Webb has handed free transfers to another two members of his first team squad - striker Trevor Fitzpatrick and defender David Morley.

Neither player featured during the Shrimpers' 2-1 FA Cup victory over Canvey Island on Sunday and Webb has informed the duo they are surplus to requirements.

"I've told both lads it is time for them to try their luck elsewhere," said Webb. "They have both gone stale at Roots Hall and need a fresh challenge. Hopefully, they can kick start their careers at another club."

Fitzpatrick, 20, has been in and out of the Southend side this season, but has scored three goals and is being trailed by Leyton Orient.

And 23-year-old Morley's first team opportunities have been mainly limited to an emergency substitute targetman role.

Now both players face the prospect of following Scott Houghton, Mark Prudhoe, Gordon Connelly and Mark Tinkler out of the Roots Hall exit door. All four have been released since Webb returned to Blues in October.

The Shrimpers chief has also transfer-listed a trio of youngsters - defenders Garry Cross and Tom McDonald, plus forward Yemi Abiodun - as he starts to reshape his squad.

"Both Trevor and David have had plenty of chances to prove themselves at Roots Hall, but they have failed to grasp their opportunities with both hands," Webb added.

"I realised they had no long term future at the club when they fell behind Rob Newman and my son, Daniel, in the pecking order here.

"A decision had to be made and I decided that Trevor and David would be best suited in pursuing their football careers elsewhere."

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