A HEARTBROKEN Elvis Bwomono apologised to Southend United’s supporters after relegation from the Football League was confirmed.

Blues will be lining up in the National League next season despite winning 2-1 at Barrow on Saturday.

But a clearly upset Bwomono is keen for the Shrimpers to react strongly to the extreme disappointment.

“We’re sorry but we will be back stronger and will pick ourselves up,” said Bwomono.

“We’re all hurting, it’s not just the fans it’s the players as well so this is really going to affect us all.

“We’re heartbroken.

“There are boys that have been here for so many years and boys who have grown up here too.

“We’ve all been together and it’s just heart-breaking, especially for me after coming through the academy and playing for the first team.”

And Bwomono also confirmed strong words had been spoken.

“We’ve been honest in the changing room and we’ve all spoken in there,” said the right-back.

“The gaffer had some harsh words to say and we have to be honest with ourselves.

“We have to assess everything individually, collectively and as a club.”

The Shrimpers will complete the season at home to Newport County on Saturday before preparing for life in the National League.

And, when asked if he wanted to be part of the fight to regain Football League status, Bwomono said: “100 per cent.

“I’ve grown up here and represented the club many times when I was a youngster.

“It’s a club I love dearly.”