Southend United manager Kieron Dyer has ruled out a move for one of his former players, following previous speculation regarding a potential swap deal.
The Shrimpers are out of form at present, winless in their last four matches across all competitions but remain third in the National League, ahead of a challenging run of games against the likes of Boreham Wood and Harrogate Town.
Ahead of Saturday’s clash with Aldershot Town, Dyer addressed the media and answered a handful of questions ranging from tactical updates, recent departures and whether the side were mentally prepared for the next stage of the campaign.
However, the final question focused on recent events surrounding the future of one of their fan favourites.
Southend manager denies transfer speculation
Following several high-profile exits in the summer, a new-looking Southend side under a brand new manager began the 2026/27 campaign in style.
Amongst their additions was young winger Sahid Kamara, who arrived on a free transfer from relegated side Braintree Town following a successful trial, but has since become somewhat of a fan favourite at Roots Hall.
In recent weeks, a report emerged which claimed that Kamara was offered to fellow National League side Woking on loan as well as cash, in exchange for Matt Ward.
Ward previously worked with Dyer at Ipswich Town – but those claims have been addressed by the latter via the club’s YouTube channel.
When asked about whether there was any truth in the reported deal, Dyer stated…
’No, when I was U21s manager (at Ipswich) Matt Ward was a player that I coached and worked with. He was in the same team as Tyreece (Simpson) and people have obviously put our connection together and came up with a possibility.
’Sahid’s (Kamara) our player; we’ve got a lot of confidence in him and I don’t want this kind of speculation to affect Sahid, he’s a fan favourite and has a big part to play in this football club.
‘But yeah, Sahid’s our player. I never wanted him out or to go out for Matt Ward, no.’
The 22-year-old has contributed to two goals in 11 appearances so far this season, proving to be an exciting player to appear off the bench for the Shrimpers.
Are further incomings likely?
Despite ruling out a move for Matt Ward during his press conference, Southend are out of form at present and risk dropping out of the play-off places entirely over the next few weeks.
However, they have recently confirmed exits for Harry Taylor and Sam Austin, whilst Dyer also admitted in his press conference that Brighton & Hove Albion loanee Sean Keogh won’t be having his deal extended.
When discussing the trio, Dyer referred to guaranteeing players minutes whilst comparing them to more integral members of his squad such as midfielder Leon Chambers-Parillon.
Therefore, whilst new signings between now and the end of the season are always likely, the suggestion from Dyer is that they’d need to be individuals that can compete for the starting eleven, rather than filling temporary gaps caused by injuries or suspensions.
Matt Ward would have been an eye-catching addition, following his strong start to the season at Woking – but he plays in a position that is already full of quality as it is.
