SOUTHEND United face Morecambe at Roots Hall tomorrow with Shrimpers boss Mark Molesley still gutted the stadium will be empty.

Saturday’s 2-0 defeat at Carlisle United saw 1,000 fans in attendance at Brunton Park and the EFL had been hoping to soon start welcoming back more supporters.

However, prime minister Boris Johnson has now put paid to those plans due to the coronavirus pandemic.

And Molesley feels football is not the same without fans in the stands.

“It’s frustrating news for us and we’re gutted,” said Molesley.

“We can’t wait to get our fans back and in times like this we need them.

“It’s the old adage but they’re a 12th man and we can’t wait to have them.

“This time has shown everyone just how important fans are to football because it’s nothing without them really.

Three of the four games Blues have played this season have taken place behind closed doors.

And Molesley is saddened by the situation.

“We were so excited to get the fans back and I’m excited to manage a team in front of them as well so it’s sad and frustrating it’s not happening,” said the 39-year-old.

“I’m hoping resolutions can come and the sooner the better really as the game is dead without them really.”

Molesley, who came to the Shrimpers in the summer after leading Weymouth to back to back promotions, is still searching for his first win since taking charge.

And he does appreciate why fans have not yet be allowed to attend Roots Hall this season.

“I understand every situation is difficult and I don’t think the problem is the fans at the grounds,” said Molesley.

“I think it’s more the transport and the pubs and the bits that go with it.

“But we need to find a resolution because football can’t survive without the fans.

“We have to come up with something quickly because it’s soulless without them.

“The sooner the fans are back in the grounds then the better it is for everyone.”

Morecambe visit Roots Hall having been beaten 7-0 by Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday night and 5-0 by Cambridge United last weekend.