FRANCIS Laurent is closing in on a switch to Coventry City.

But he insists it was a hard decision to leave Southend United.

Laurent made 62 appearances during a two-year spell at Roots Hall.

And the French winger thoroughly enjoyed his time with the club.

“I did enjoy my time at Southend and the fans were always very good to me,” said Laurent, 24.

“It was always my dream to come and play in England and Southend made that possible for me, so I thank them for that and it was a hard decision to leave.”

However, Laurent’s desire to play at a higher level was what eventually persuaded him to depart as he did not want to be playing in League Two this term.

“I think I have the quality to play higher and that was the main reason in leaving,” said Laurent.

“I don’t want to say anything bad about Southend but there were some bad situations at the club which were hard to deal with.

“A lot of other players were also leaving, so I thought it might be a good time to go.”

Laurent is now keen to remain in England and could soon be joining Coventry in the Championship.

“Hopefully it can be sorted in the next couple of days,” said Laurent.

“The manager wants to sign me and it would be a really good move for me.”