Former Southend United midfielder Carl Hutchings has admitted he regretted turning his back on Roots Hall.
The 28-year-old quit the Shrimpers for bitter east London rivals Leyton Orient midway through last season on a free transfer.
But Hutchings, who was sacked by the O's two weeks ago following a fall out with Brisbane Road boss Paul Brush, said leaving Roots Hall was one of the biggest mistakes of his life.
"I should never have left Southend, but that's easy to say now," said crowd favourite Hutchings, who made 43 league appearances for the Seasiders, scoring four times.
"Blues could only offer me a month-to-month contract at the time and I joined Orient because they put a permanent deal on the table.
"I admit the wages were higher at Brisbane Road, but nothing like the crazy £1,500 a week figure I have heard banded around. I can only dream of earning that sort of money."
Published Tuesday, April 29, 2003
Share