SOUTHEND United striker Stephen Humphrys has joined Rochdale.

The 22-year-old scored 11 goals in 35 games for Blues.

But Shrimpers boss Mark Molesley has confirmed Humphrys will depart on the eve of the League Two season.

“The club has now accepted an offer for Humps,” said Molesley.

“The club have done all they can to keep Humps here but he wanted to be closer to his family and loved ones in the north of the country.

“It’s a sizeable offer which has been accepted and he was in the last year of his contract too.

“He’s a good player, we thank him for his efforts and wish him all the very best for the future.

“But we’re looking to build something here and we want everyone to be fully committed to that.”

Humphrys joined Blues in January 2019 and will be best remembered for scoring a last gasp winner against Sunderland on the final day of the 2018/19 season to keep the club in League One.

Humphrys also had a loan spell with Rochdale in 2018.