SOUTHEND United have been rocked by the departure of their strength and conditioning coach Laurence Bloom.

The highly-rated 29-year-old will be leaving Roots Hall to take up a similar position at Charlton Athletic.

And Blues’ player coach Graham Coughlan described Bloom’s departure as a huge blow for the club.

“Speaking on behalf of the whole group we are really going to miss him,” said Coughlan.

“He did some unbelievable work for the football club and will be a big, big miss for us.

“He was a joy and pleasure to work with and whoever comes in to replace him has some very big shoes to fill.”

Bloom was responsible for planning the players’ pre-season programmes and also kept tabs on their fitness using a number of technological methods to ensure they performed to their best.

His work helped the previously injury prone Lee Barnard and Barry Corr both stay fit for Blues.

Coughlan was keen to wish Bloom all the best for the future.

“Laurence leaves with our best wishes and I’m sure he will do well,” said Coughlan.

“He obviously has aims and ambitions, just like everyone else does in football, and it’s a good move for him.”

FULL STORY IN MONDAY'S ECHO