Gills defender Adam Barrett has joined League 2 Southend United.

The 35-year-old defender has not featured for the Gills this season and spent the first half of the campaign on loan at AFC Wimbledon.

He was made surplus to requirements by former boss Peter Taylor.

Barrett previously captained the Gills and led them to the League 2 title under former boss Martin Allen.

He leaves the club after making 95 appearances.

AFC Wimbledon initially expressed interest in keeping the defender until the end of this season but were unable to agree a deal.

He had been a regular for the Dons, making 30 appearances, with his last coming against Liverpool in the FA Cup.

It was that appearance that helped convince Southend boss Phil Brown to sign the experienced defender.

Brown said: "He's determined, knows the division very well and has a determination and desire to do well here and help us achieve our goals."

Essex-based Barrett spent six years at Southend between 2004 and 2010, making 289 appearances.

His exit follows the recent departures of Danny Kedwell and Matt Fish from the club.