Michael Spillane has played his last game for the club and has joined League Two rivals Southend United on a free transfer. Pic: Dave Simpson/TGSPhoto

Midfielder Michael Spillane has made the switch from Daggers to Southend on a free transfer.

Midfielder Michael Spillane has joined League Two rivals Southend United on a free transfer.

The 23-year-old’s 18-month contract was due to run out in June and Daggers could not match the deal he was currently on, after he received a pay off from his former club Brentford.

Spillane was the club’s player of the season last year and helped them avoid a second successive relegation with a fantastic run which included just one defeat in the last 10 games of the season, but Still believes he it was only right to allow the midfielder to speak to their league rivals.

“When we brought Mickey in it was helped by a pay-off from Brentford and we made it clear we couldn’t offer as much as what he was on there.

“We were honest with him and said we wouldn’t be able to match anything again this season and if something came up in this window then it could be discussed.”

Spillane has initially signed a deal with the Shrimpers to the end of the season, with an option to extend.

And with his wages off the books it is now thought Still could strengthen his defence.

If there was an injury to any of the current back four then Daggers would be struggling and despite the former Norwich City youngster being able to fill in at centre half if required, the Daggers chief is looking elsewhere.

“The defence is an area we are looking at,” he added. “We are aware that we need to try and strengthen that position.

“Mickey gave us that option at centre half but in the position we preferred to play him I have a lot of options.

“And by freeing up that area we can strengthen in others and the defence is one of them.”