CARLTON Cole will not be signing for Southend United.

The experienced former West Ham United striker had been training with the Shrimpers at the start of last week.

But the 33-year-old has not been in since last Tuesday.

And Blues boss Phil Brown will not be offering the striker a contract.

"Being completely honest about the situation Carlton seems to have disappeared off the face of the earth and I'm not really too sure what's happened." said Brown.

"I've not been able to speak to Carlton or his agents.

"I would imagine he's got something lined up elsewhere now but it won't be at Southend United."

Cole has recently returned to England after a short period playing in Indonesia.

The forward is best remembered for his spell at Upton Park and also won seven caps for England. He scored 51 goals in 289 Premier League appearances for four clubs.