JOE Pigott has revealed he does not expect to return to Southend United.

The striker’s five month loan spell from Charlton Athletic has now come to an end.

But, despite Blues having an option to sign the striker on a permanent basis, Pigott does not think he will be heading back to Roots Hall.

“Everything is still a bit up in the air at the moment but if I’m honest I don’t expect to be coming back to Southend,” said Pigott, 22.

“The club do have an option to sign me if they wish to do so but it doesn’t seem like that will happen.

“And from my own personal point of view I think I need to go somewhere I’ll be playing more regularly.

“My last start was at Scunthorpe in the FA Cup at the start of November and I was on the bench for 10 games in a row after that.

“It was frustrating and I felt as though I warranted more of chance for some of those matches.

“But these things happen and there are certainly no hard feelings from me, especially as the team were doing quite well up until the last couple of games.”

Pigott, who bagged a memorable late equaliser in Blues’ play-off final success against Wycombe Wanderers at Wembley last May, netted five times in 13 starts during his second spell.

However, the striker was disappointed not to have hit the back of the net more often.

“I wanted to get more goals than I did because I’m a forward and that’s what I do,” said Pigott.

“Five in 13 starts isn’t too bad but I always aim for one in two so I’m disappointed it was able to happen.

“But I’ve got a few options now and hopefully I’ll be able to get a few more in the second half of the season.”

Pigott is now back training with Charlton but hopes Southend can still enjoy a successful end to the campaign.

“I will look back on both my spells at Southend with fond memories and I wish everyone there all the very best for the future,” said Pigott.

“I really hope they can keep on doing well and I’ll certainly never forget that day we had at Wembley.

“I just hope nobody else does either!”