SOUTHEND manager Sol Campbell and his backroom staff have left the club by mutual consent, it was announced yesterday.

The former England international joined the Essex club in October but was unable to prevent their relegation to League Two.

A spokesman for the club said: “We are grateful to Sol Campbell for his contribution while manager. Sol arrived at a time when the team were struggling and began to make a difference just as Covid-19 interrupted the season.”

The Shrimpers had won just four of their 35 games when the League One season was curtailed by the coronavirus pandemic.

Thanking Campbell, the spokesman continued: “Sol’s use of the club’s young talent was a breath of fresh air, who responded well to his stewardship.”

Campbell said: “I have really enjoyed my time at Southend United and while it was a difficult time fighting relegation, I still enjoyed the experience.”

His departure means there are now only five managers in England’s top four tiers who are from black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) backgrounds — amid a drive by footballing bodies to help more BAME ex-players become coaches.