FREDDY Eastwood has been released by Southend United.

The 30-year-old striker struggled to nail down a regular starting slot during his second spell at Roots Hall.

And Shrimpers boss Phil Brown has now decided against handing Eastwood a new deal.

Brown has also released defender Mark Phillips and midfielders Marc Laird and Bedsente Gomis.

Youngsters Ryan Auger and Luke Chambers have also been let go but have been invited back for pre-season training.

Brown remains in talks with the club’s other soon to be out of contract players, goalkeeper Paul Smith, midfielder Jack Payne and striker Anthony Straker.

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