Source: PA
Duo leave Shrimpers
Southend have cancelled the contracts of French duo Francis Laurent and Jean-Francois Christophe by mutual consent.
The duo signalled their desire to leave the club earlier this month following United`s relegation to League Two and manager Paul Sturrock has now granted their wish.
Forward Laurent was a key player for the Shrimpers in their ultimately unsuccessful battle to avoid the drop, scoring six goals in 35 matches last term.
Midfielder Christophe was also a regular, appearing 36 times and scoring once.
A statement on the club`s official website read: "Southend United wishes both players all the best in the future and thanks them for their service during their time with the Blues."
Their departures come as a blow to Sturrock just eight days before the start of the new season.
