Huddersfield's new signing Peter Clarke has left Southend with his former manager Steve Tilson's blessing.

Tilson lost his long battle to keep hold of Clarke, who moved to Southend from Blackpool in a £300,000 deal three years ago, but was not prepared to stand in the 27-year-old defender's way once he had made his mind up.

Tilson said: "We're obviously all very disappointed to be losing Peter. He was our best player last season and so to lose him is a blow, but we understand his reasons.

"Peter's father-in-law has been ill and been undergoing treatment so moving back nearer his home will enable his wife to see him a lot more.

"We had been trying to get Peter signed up to a new deal since September last year and again at the end of the season.

"We are looking to build a side for the future, so to lose Peter comes as a blow, but I understand his reasons and wish him all the best."