Southend United star Gus Scott-Morriss set to depart for Oldham Athletic

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Gus Scott-Morriss says Southend United will always have a “special place” in his heart after agreeing a move to League Two side Oldham Athletic following the expiry of his contract this summer.

The 29-year-old will leave Roots Hall after four memorable years with the Shrimpers, bringing an end to a spell which saw him establish himself as one of the National League’s most dangerous attacking defenders.

Scott-Morriss scored 17 goals in all competitions during the 2025-26 campaign, matching his tally from the previous season, but could not help Southend secure promotion back to the EFL.

Kevin Maher led Southend to a play-off finish this season but defeat at Scunthorpe United extended their stay in Non-League football.

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Fan favourite

A statement from the club confirmed: “Southend United can confirm Gus Scott-Morriss will depart the club following the expiration of his contract to explore an opportunity elsewhere.

“The wing-back has established himself as a firm fan’s favourite in his four years in South Essex, making 180 appearances and scoring 47 times.

“Scott-Morriss was voted as the Supporters’ Player of the Season in three consecutive years between 2024 and 2026, as well as picking up the Golden Boot in his previous two campaigns.

“His final kick in a Southend shirt secured our first ever domestic cup, converting a spot-kick in our penalty shootout win over Wealdstone to clinch the Isuzu FA Trophy.

“Everyone at Southend United would like to thank Scott-Morriss for his contributions to the club, and we wish him all the best for the future.”

Emotional farewell

Following confirmation of his departure, Scott-Morriss posted an emotional farewell message to supporters on X.

“Where do I begin … A crazy journey from start to finish! One I could never have dreamt of when first signing for the Shrimpers,” he wrote.

“I want to say a big thanks to the management for giving me my first opportunity in full time football, when I thought that chance probably wouldn’t come.

“To the lads who stuck together through thick and thin in the darkest times, from not getting paid to lifting silverware together at Wembley. Brothers I’ll never forget.

“And last of all thank you to the fans! You welcomed me in from day one and made me feel like one of your own.

“I’ll forever be grateful for this and will never forget.

“This journey comes to an end but it will always have a special place in my heart.”

Delighted

Speaking ahead of his move to Boundary Park, Scott-Morriss said: “I’m delighted to be here and to get the deal done and I just can’t wait to get started.

“I’ve played here a few times for the opposition so I know what the supporters are like, they’re a great fanbase so I can’t wait to get out there and show them what I can do.

“I’ll bring lots of energy, hopefully lots of output and I’ll try to get a few goals and assists. But I’m a team player, I want to win.

“We want to get out of this division, the gaffer made it clear to me that is what we want to do.”

Oldham manager Micky Mellon added: “We’re delighted to bring Gus to the football club.

“He’s been one of the stand-out performers at Southend and in the National League over the last three seasons and his numbers from full-back speak for themselves.

“To score and create as consistently as he has from that position is a huge asset. 

“Gus brings energy, athleticism and a real attacking threat down the flank, but he also understands the defensive side of the game.

“He will give us a different dimension with his quality in the final third and his ability to influence matches from wide areas.

“We believe he’ll be a fantastic addition to the squad and our supporters will be excited by what he can bring.”

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