MATT Uggla has revealed he looked at buying Southend United before taking control of York City.

Uggla has been incredibly supportive of the Shrimpers during their ongoing struggles and donated £10,000 to the Shrimpers Trust’s hardship fund back in July.

But Uggla has now confirmed how he had initially been interested in playing far more of a part at Roots Hall after failing to complete a takeover of Yeovil Town.

“It would definitely have been one of the first choices,” Uggla told the Echo.

“It’s a massive club but we did a bit of due diligence on it and the situation is just a headache there.

“After being burnt at Yeovil we just thought do we really want to go down that road again?

“But with York it was quite a simple transaction.”

However, despite not pursuing his interest in buying Blues, Uggla continues to keep tabs on the results.

And he is relishing the Shrimpers visiting York City on Saturday.

“I’m looking forward to the weekend but it’s a tough test," said Uggla.

“The players have been phenomenal and so has Kev (Maher).

“To have reacted the way they have is top class.

“I think everyone expected them to struggle but they’ve been unreal and I know the fans are too.”

Uggla has felt that warmth from the Blues’ support himself and is therefore keen for the club to do well.

“I do feel like a weird special bond with them even though I have nothing to do with it,” said Uggla.

“I always look out for their results and hope they’re doing well but obviously this weekend I hope they’re not!

“But it’s honestly been amazing.

“I have friends from down that way so I know people from Southend are great.

“It’s been nice to be able to help a little bit even if it was just a small amount.

“I’m sure someone will come along and hopefully rescue the situation.”

Blues have until October 4 to pay off their debts or will face the prospect of being wound up.

And Uggla is now fully aware how football can operate.

“I was a bit naïve,” said Uggla.

“From the outside looking in I thought everyone working in football would be great and would want what’s best for the fans.

“But you soon realise there’s a sinister side to it and one person has the fate of a club so many people love in their hands.

"I saw it at Yeovil and it made me feel a bit sick to the bottom of my stomach that people could behave like that.

“It’s on a much bigger scale at Southend.”

Uggla is now firmly focused on securing a bright future for York.

But he is touched the Shrimpers Trust will be making a presentation to him ahead of this weekend’s clash.

“It’s great and it’s great the clubs have a great relationship too,” said Uggla.

“I love being here with York but it is stressful!”