SHAUN Hobson says his departure from Southend United is nothing to do with the club’s financial issues.

The Shrimpers are still unable to offer any of their players new contracts due to the transfer embargo they have been placed in since September.

But Hobson – who has joined Oldham Athletic on a two-year-deal – insists he would have left Blues whatever the circumstances this summer due to his desire to move back closer to his Manchester home.

“The gaffer, the staff and everyone at the club knows this has nothing to do with the offer of a contract by Southend,” stressed Hobson.

“I just wanted to come back home and the club couldn’t have done anything more really.

“I gave everything I had to Southend but it was time to move on.”

Hobson made 139 appearances during his three seasons with the Shrimpers.

And, despite a whole host of off-field issues, the 24-year-old is keen to remember the good times he had while at Roots Hall.

“It’s never dull at Southend, I can’t lie,” said Hobson.

“It’s been an experience from start to finish but I’ve learnt a lot from it too.

“I won’t focus on the negatives, I’ll remember the good memories and I think the gaffer (Kevin Maher) has done a great job since he’s been in there.

“I have total respect for him and his staff.

“Southend was my first proper step into men’s football and I’ll always appreciate being given that opportunity.”

However, from next season Hobson will be focusing on lining up for the Latics.

And there were a number of factors which led to him deciding to sign for David Unsworth’s side.

“It’s a combination of everything really,” said Hobson.

“It’s a big club and I’m basically home again.

“I’d been away nearly seven years so it’s been a long time coming.

“It’s also about the ambition of the club really and I’m an ambitious person.

“To get it over the line was good and I’m happy.”