A GAME organised in memory of former Southend United skipper Chris Barker has been delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Barker - who skippered the Shrimpers in their first ever Wembley cup final back in 2013 - was tragically found dead at home on New Year’s Day.

And game to raise funds for mental health charity MIND - which featured a whole host of his former Blues team-mates - had been organised in his honour.

However, event organiser and Echosport’s chief reporter Chris Phillips has confirmed the game will not be taking place in May, as was originally expected.

“Unfortunately we won’t be able to have the game in May as was first planned but I’m sure everyone understands the situation and that there is no other option,” said Phillips.

“The response from Barks’ former team-mates and from sponsors as well was fantastic and this night will definitely still happen, it’s just impossible to say when right now.

“I’m sure this night will still prove to be popular but until then let's stay safe and look after those around us anyway we can because it’s a horrible time.”

Among those who were confirmed to play in the game were Sean Clohessy, Mark Phillips, Ryan Cresswell, Bilel Mohsni, Ryan Hall, Kane Ferdinand, Michael Timlin, Liam Dickinson, Barry Corr and Neil Harris.

Ex Blues boss Paul Sturrock was also due to be in attendance while former Shrimpers midfielder Ryan Leonard had agreed to be referee.

Southend fan and comedian Terry Alderton was the man on the microphone while tickets prices had been set at £5 for adults and £1 for those under 16s.

A question and answer session had also been organised for the night before the game and it is also hoped that this will still be able to take place.

Organisers were also keen to thank Emersons, BTMK and MSPFX for agreeing to sponsor the match at Roots Hall.