SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher is certain his in-form side will not be distracted by off the field issues when they take on Gateshead this weekend.

The Shrimpers’ concerning financial situation has hit the headlines throughout the week.

But Maher wants his players - who are unbeaten in 11 National League games - to maintain their recent levels of application.

“The players have been brilliant throughout,” said Maher.

“They apply themselves every day and block out anything they need to block out.

“We can’t hide from it.

“It is what it is and it’s out there but the players have a job to do on the pitch and they’ve got to keep doing it.

“The players make the best of every situation and they concentrate on their football.”

The Shrimpers have shone where that is concerned and have risen to fifth in the table having not lost in the league since mid-September.

But away from the playing side of things, Blues are still facing a huge battle.

The club remains under a transfer embargo after a winding up petition issued by HMRC was adjourned while members of staff are still waiting to be paid.

Supporters are now playing their part and an online ‘Go Fund Me’ page has now raised more than £18,000 while the Shrimpers Trust and shirt sponsors PG Site Services have both loaned the club £40,000.

And Maher is incredibly grateful for the backing shown both on and off the pitch.

“The amount of fans we’re taking to Gateshead is unbelievable considering everything that’s going on in the world with the cost of living and the run in to Christmas which I know isn’t cheap,” said the Blues boss.

“To take the numbers we do is incredible but I’m not surprised because I know how good they are and for me they’re the best in the country.

“With the fundraising, the gesture we’ve had from the Shrimpers Trust, PG Site Services and the fundraising page doesn’t go unnoticed from our side of things and I know how much it’s appreciated. “

And Maher was also keen to praise the part chief executive Tom Lawrence is playing during a difficult time.

“Tom does an incredible job,” said Maher.

“Since I’ve been here he’s been at the forefront of things and is someone I speak to on a daily basis.

“He has tough decisions to make but he has to take a lot of credit for the work he does.”

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