SOUTHEND United look set to appeal their points deduction from the National League.

The Shrimpers are currently on minus four points for the season after the league opted to dock them 10 points for failing to pay off their outstanding debt to HMRC this morning.

However, the club believe a transfer embargo and not a points deduction would be the correct punishment.

A statement from the club, issued moments before the National League confirmed the points deduction, said: “We also know that people are concerned about the prospect of a points deduction for apparent non compliance with the conditional licence we have been granted to play in the National league’s competition.

“We believe that the correct sanction for non payment of HMRC is an embargo, not a points deduction.

“We are talking to the National League on this point.

“If agreement cannot be reached we will immediately pursue an appeal.

“We would like to thank our staff and supporters for sticking with us as we move towards a new era.

“We would also like to thank Kev, the coaching team and the players for their incredible efforts so far this season.”