SOUTHEND United chairman Ron Martin wants the Shrimpers squad to become more consistent for Christmas.

Blues - who travel to Scunthorpe United this weekend - sit 12th in the League One table after enduring an up and down campaign so far.

And chairman Martin wants Phil Brown’s side to raise festive spirits at Roots Hall by producing a sustained run of good results to force their way into the promotion picture.

“At times we have been too inconsistent and not all the players are ‘on it’ all of the time,” said Martin.

“If they want to be part of this club’s future then that will gain them a new contract.

“If they don’t want to be here then taking their foot off the pedal is not going to encourage other clubs to sign them, not that I want any player to leave.

“What I want (for Christmas!), and it would be the best present for all supporters, is for all our very, very talented squad to not just simply turn up.

“Credit to Ryan Leonard who continues to be a true professional.

"But there are no shortcuts to success, there can be no weak links and we have to be bang on it for 90 minutes plus.

“Everyone must live life when not on the pitch to enable 100 per cent effort when on the pitch, nothing less at Southend United will do.”

But Martin is also keen for Blues to progress off the pitch.

And he has called on the club’s loyal fans to get behind the plans for a new stadium at Fossetts Farm.

“This club sits on the precipice of a hugely bright future,” said the chairman.

“Yes the council need to approve our plans and we can only hope there is a recognition that the new stadium development goes further than the new stadium alone.

“It breathes new life into our club and our town.

“Southend has never seen an investment of this magnitude ever.

“There will be no going back, no second chance.

“Our time is now and that’s why I am urging all supporters to let the council know their views.

“Without your voice we will be stuck at Roots Hall and unable to compete.

“I for one will not put up with mediocrity no matter how you wrap it up because being the best we can is what football is about.

“I cannot achieve it for you at Roots Hall – but at Fossetts, together, we can.

“Let the decision makers have your opinion, it is very important.

“I am urging the players to make your Christmas and I shall do my best to make your new year.”

Supporters can have their say on the stadium plans by visiting publicaccess.southend.gov.uk online and viewing application No.17/00733/FULM