Souuthend United have revealed that defender Sam Hart turned down a new contract from the club to join League Two side Oldham Athletic.

The 24-year-old re-joined the Blues on a free transfer in November and made 20 appearances for them last season.

Oldham head coach Keith Curle said: “Sam is someone who still has huge potential but is now at a point in his career where he has matured from his experiences which will make him become an important part of the team we’re building here.

“He is eager to learn and be successful in the way we want to play. He’s the typical type of wing-back where he’ll have an impact on a regular basis in games.

“He’ll open teams up with his speed and physicality and I’ve been an admirer of his qualities when he’s been on the opposing side in the past.”