KEVIN Maher was praised for producing miracles with Southend United when receiving the freedom of the city tonight.

Maher’s efforts were recognised at this evening’s ceremony at the Civic Centre.

And Tony Cox, the leader of the council, was delighted to see Maher rewarded for the job he has done at Roots Hall.

“It gives me great pleasure to propose the nomination of Anna Firth MP for Kevin Maher to be given the freedom of this great city,” said Cox.

“I do believe this is actually the first award, in either the freedom of the borough or the city, to a sportsman or sportswoman.

“But I think it would be very short-sighted to say this is an award for the undeniable herculean efforts over the past couple of seasons.”

Cox went on to highlight Maher’s long association with the Shrimpers which included 10 years as a player plus four coaching the under 23 team.

But it is as head coach Maher as excelled since coming back to the club in October 2021.

"It is nothing short of a miracle that even with a 10 point deduction Southend United are in mid-table luxury when by rights a deduction of this size would have relegated most clubs,” said Cox.

"Some of the stunning results this season are nothing short of a miracle.

"I will pick one out and that's the one against Chesterfield, the runaway leaders, which was done with just one substitute.

"When looking at the best way to finish the speech I looked at comments from supporters.

“One of them summed it up in four words: player, captain, coach, legend."

Cllr Daniel Cowan added: "Southend United wouldn't be where it is now without the incredible work of Kevin and his coaching team.

"It doesn't matter what side of the political divide we're on we all love and appreciate Kevin for what he's done for the football club.

"It brings the city together."

And Cllr Paul Collins, a keen Blues fan, also highlighted Maher' loyalty.

"What you have shown us through your dedication to your staff and players is nothing short of inspirational," said Collins.

"It's something we can all take lessons from.

"The personal sacrifices you have made in the past 12 months have not gone unnoticed.

"We should undoubtedly show you our gratitude with the freedom of the city.

"Without you I'm not sure Southend United would exist, it's as simple as that."

Cllr Martin Terry, another keen Shrimpers supporters, echoed those sentiments.

He said: "It can't be overlooked that the dire straits we were in, the financial straits we were in and having the 10 points deducted we could've gone pop.

"Kevin's job has not just been magnificent, it's doubly magnificent.

"I do believe that if we hadn't performed like we had under your stewardship that we may not even be here now.

"This is a fantastic thing for me to support because you really have done a brilliant job."