BLUES head coach Kevin Maher is humbled to be receiving the freedom of the city of Southend.

Maher will become just the third person to be given the honour when he attends a special ceremony this evening.

But a modest Maher is not sure he should been given such an accolade.

“Whether I deserve it or not I don’t know but it’s a great honour and I’m eternally grateful for it,” said Maher.

“I appreciate everyone who has said nice words about it and it’s humbling.

“I don’t know what to make of it but I am grateful.”

Maher made 454 appearances during a 10 year spell as a player for the Shrimpers which included him captaining the club to back to back promotions and victory over Manchester United in the League Cup.

The former midfielder also spent seasons coaching within the club’s academy before returning as head coach in October 2021.

In that role that Maher has led the Shrimpers through the darkest times of their history as the club came close to being wound up.

But Maher was keen to stress he had not been working alone. “I do recognise everyone else who has gone through this period and also gone above and beyond,” said Maher.

“That’s not been lost on me at all.

“Darren (Currie), Mark (Bentley), John Still, Tom Lawrence and all the staff have gone through the tough times.

“I might be at the forefront of it but I won’t forget what’s gone on here and how we got through it together.”

Maher helped the Shrimpers remain competitive on the pitch despite a 15 month long transfer embargo, a 10 point deduction and all kind of financial issues.

But it is a club Maher now regards as his second home. “I was here 10 years as a player, four years as a coach and now back as manager so it’s been a huge part of my life,” said Maher.

“To the people of Southend I’m so grateful for their support and this for this honour.

“It’s become a second home for me.

“You get to know people around the area and club and it’s a huge part of my life.

“To have my family here with me too is nice.”