JUSTIN Rees met with Southend United chairman Ron Martin for a further round of talks yesterday.

Rees flew in from Holland to watch the North London derby at the Emirates Stadium.

And he used the opportunity to meet with Martin – who did not attend the game - before kick-off.

Rees released a statement on behalf of a consortium trying to buy the club last week and he confirmed to Echosport that yesterday’s talks were positive.

Rees and the consortium have already had two bids rejected to buy the Shrimpers but they remain keen to take charge.

However, Blues are running out of time as they are due back in the High Court on Wednesday October 4.

On their previous visit in late August, the Shrimpers were told they would be wound up if their outstanding debt to HMRC was not paid before the next hearing.

Around 500 Blues fans marched together in protest ahead of Saturday's match with AFC Fylde.