Shrimpers deny Guttridge claims

Southend United have been reassured by midfielder Luke Guttridge that he has no intention of quitting the club.

Local media reported that the 24-year-old had handed in a transfer request at Roots Hall.

However, after speaking with the player, chairman Ron Martin has moved to reject the reports as 'factually incorrect'.

"The Southend Echo article was factually incorrect," Martin told the club's official website.

"The Football Club has not received a request from Luke Guttridge or his agent to be placed on the transfer list.

"If we had then it would not have been accepted, I would most certainly have declined it.

"It may be that Luke is unhappy at not being first choice recently. But that has to be earned and it is not a guarantee for anybody.

"Steve Tilson is the only person who chooses the team - the players can assist that process by giving their all 100 percent of the time on and off the pitch.

"I met with Luke Guttridge and his agent, along with Steve Tilson and Paul Brush yesterday morning.

"We're all confident that Luke understands selection policy and is very happy at Southend United."