SOUTHEND United legend Adam Barrett has announced his retirement from the game with immediate effect.

The popular 37-year-old made a combined total of 354 appearances for the Shrimpers.

And Barrett admitted it was a tough decision to hang up his boots.

“I’ve been lucky enough to have a good career and this has been a difficult decision for me to make,” said the centre-back.

“But I do feel as though it is the right time for me to retire.”

Barrett, who is a former Belfairs High School pupil, grew up watching Blues and signed for his home-town club in 2004.

The defender won two promotions during a successful six year stint playing for then Shrimpers boss Steve Tilson who was quick to heap praise on his influential former captain.

“Adam was a colossal figure on the pitch for Southend during my time there and an absolutely fantastic person off it as well,” said Tilson.

“All the way throughout his career he was a model professional and he gave everything both on and off the pitch.

“He was a true leader and would do anything for the club and the community.

“He was always the first to put his hand up to help for anything and played a big part in the success we had.”

Barrett left Blues in 2010 before returning five years later for a second stint which included a memorable League Two play-off final victory against Wycombe Wanderers.

But Tilson does not believe the Shrimpers would have been promoted without Barrett in the team.

“I really don’t think Southend would have gone up that year if Adam hadn’t started playing,” said Tilson.

“He really does bring so much to the team but he’s someone who will definitely stay in the game as a coach and then as a manager.”