Southend United: Ryan Leonard & Michael Timlin stay as six depart Roots Hall

Midfielder Ryan Leonard has played 236 matches for Southend United

Southend United player of the year Ryan Leonard has had the option in his contract extended, but six players have been released by the League One side.

Leonard, 24, has signed an extension alongside fellow midfielders Michael Timlin and Anthony Wordsworth.

Timlin, 32, appeared 29 times for Southend last season and Wordsworth, 28, scored 12 goals in 38 last term.

David Mooney, Luke O'Neill, Frank Nouble, Zavon Hines, Jason Williams and Jordan Williams have been released.

Youngsters Nico Cotton and Dan Matsuzaka have also extended their stay with the Shrimpers, who just missed out on the play-offs this season.

They finished one point behind Millwall, who were eventually promoted to the Championship.