A STATEMENT from Southend United chairman Ron Martin.

Next Thursday could prove to be the most significant day in the club’s long history.

A Meeting of Full Council is to be held On Thursday, 10th December.

Members of the Council (51 persons in total) will debate and vote on the final approval of the agreement that would, subject to planning processes, facilitate the club’s new stadium. Cabinet approval was received on Tuesday, 24th November.

The importance of next Thursday cannot be over emphasised. Should the club receive, as hoped, the green light this will change the off-field future of your club forever.

A new modern stadium with first class facilities will enable Southend United, as a result of this investment, to major on its long-held potential.

Nobody more than me is acutely aware of our on-field performances. We are doing all we can to change that and yesterday’s news that some funds will soon flow down from the Premier League is welcomed.

This has been many months coming, but nevertheless a great step.

Lifting the embargo allowing Sim & Sam (sounds like a pantomime duo!) to be registered would be great news.

Both of these players bring something different.

Of course, we wish Simeon and Sam could have been available before now.

However, we all have to accept we are not in normal times ... we ALL want the same thing.

Mark has had two trialists in this week and with other players coming back from injury, and Covid, he’ll soon have more players at his disposal.

In addition to how we might strengthen the squad at this time, the biggest news could arrive on Thursday.

If the club gets approval, we will be able to strengthen further in the January window and if Mark can identify the players he needs, then the club shall back him.

Be sure to watch our future unfold in front of your eyes via the Council’s website on a live video feed ... Kick Off is 6:30pm.

Ron Martin