MAURO Vilhete left Southend United in order to play first team football.

Vilehete left the Shrimpers last week having made 14 appearances while at Roots Hall.

But the 30-year-old, who joined Blues when under a transfer embargo on a dual registration with Hayes & Yeading , would ideally liked to have extended his time with Kevin Maher’s squad.

“I came in in difficult circumstances for the club but I honestly loved every minute of it and wish I could’ve stayed longer,” said Vilhete.

“Sometimes it happens in football and you have to move on but I definitely enjoyed my time there.”

Vilhete made 11 substitute appearances and three starts while with the Shrimpers but fell down the pecking order once the club were given the green light to make new signings.

The midfield, who also played out of position as a second striker at times, failed to make the last three matchday squads before moving on.

And that ultimately led to his departure.

“I want to play more and it didn’t look like it was going happen,” said Vilhete.

“We were talking about a deal and stuff but you can’t be promised game time and I want to play as much as I can at my age now.”

However, Vilhete holds no grudges against the Shrimpers.

“I enjoyed my time there,” said Vilhete.

“I met some great people, the fans are amazing, the boys are all unreal and so are the gaffer and his staff.

“They’re great people and I wish them all nothing but the best.

“I’d had loved to have stayed but my time has come to an end.”

Vilhete has now opted to join Isthmian Premier Division leaders Hornchurch.

And he enjoyed a debut to remember for the Urchins after coming off the bench to score the winner in a 3-2 victory at Dulwich Hamlet.

“It’s good to be coming in to Hornchurch and it’s a new experience for me,” said Vilhete.

“I’m looking to end the season strongly and see what happens next year.

“We’re in a great position and promotion is this aim.”

Hornchurch are currently nine points clear of second placed Chatham Town with two games in hand on the Kent club.