SOUTHEND United chairman Ron Martin has confirmed the Shrimpers have joined Grimsby Town in ending their proposal to stop relegation from the Football League.

Blues and Grimsby will both be in the National League next season after going down from League Two.

And both clubs have now opted to end their challenge. 

“Southend United supported Grimsby Town’s proposal in recognition of the changes to the National League rules during the campaign which conflicted with the stated objective of the FA pyramid where promotion and relegation are a fundamental principle,” said Martin.

“This past 15 months due to Covid has necessitated many twists and turns within the industry in order to keep clubs, particularly those further down the pyramid, alive.

"The National League changes to their rules did not favour Grimsby Town or indeed Southend, and while we supported their proposal we are equally content to support Grimsby Town's withdrawal.

“I accept the club’s performances were not good enough, apart from short spells, throughout the season and deserved to be relegated.

“Work has already started on making sure we do all we can to return to the EFL at the first attempt”