Ex-Pool striker Ranger has contract terminated at Southend

Ranger has had his contract terminated at Roots Hall

The 26-year-old, who made 14 appearances for Blackpool between 2014 and 2016, was released from prison in August having served a 10-week sentence for online banking fraud.

He was missing from Southend's team for their 1-1 draw at MK Dons back in November. Ranger took to Twitter after the game, writing: "Have to work on my time keeping".

He had previously missed Southend's League One game with Shrewsbury Town in September because of a curfew on his electronic tag.

And then last month, the striker was missing from Southend's squad for the game against Scunthorpe United due to what was described as an illness by manager Phil Brown.

A club statement read: "Following a meeting yesterday with Nile Ranger, the club has today terminated the player's contract in accordance with the terms of the agreement.

"This decision was taken following reoccurring disciplinary issues, including timekeeping, which undermine both the unity of the group and the management.

"In many ways it is regrettable having worked closely with Nile over the past 18 months. However, the interests of the club are paramount and the board will never allow those objectives to be undermined.”