SOUTHEND United manager Sol Campbell is ready to deal with however the season is ended.

The Shrimpers, who have not played since the start of March, are still due to play nine games this term.

But Campbell insists safety must come first.

“I think safety has to come before anything else,” said Campbell.

“I know other countries are looking to come back and Germany are close to playing again but their numbers have been lower than ours.

“I don’t think you can consider bringing back football here until it’s safe to do so but we have to be ready for every possible outcome.

“I’m not sure what’s going to happen or what the authorities will decide to do but we have to be flexible in our thinking so we’re ready to go again whenever that may be.”

Campbell’s side sit second from bottom in the League One standings, 16 points from safety.

But the former England international insists he is still happy at the Shrimpers.

“I’m happy to be at Southend and I’m happy being a manager,” said Campbell.

“The players had all been given fitness programmes to follow before being furloughed and we’re in constant contact with the players and staff we can still talk to.

“It’s tough but we’re all doing what we can.”

However, Campbell has yet to consider strengthening his squad for next season at this stage.

“It’s tough where that’s concerned because we still can’t bring anyone in,” he added.