ADAM Barrett has described Steve Tilson’s departure as a “big loss” for Southend United.

Barrett spent six seasons working alongside Tilson before having his contract cancelled by mutual consent a fortnight ago.

But the former Blues captain felt Tilson did not deserve to lose his job.

“It came as a big shock to me, just like it did everyone else I’m sure because the gaffer has done an incredible job at the football club,” said Barrett.

“He had a lot of success early on but I think you learn more about a manager when things aren’t going too well and when things did start to go wrong he was still fantastic.

“He treated the players fantastically well, was professional at all times and there is nothing more he or anyone else for that matter could have done last season to keep us up.

“Like I said in the Echo last week, he is the best manager I’ve ever worked for and it’s sad day because it’s a big loss for the football club.

“It’s very harsh too and I certainly don’t think he deserved to lose his job.”

FULL STORY IN MONDAY'S ECHO