MP Anna Firth is confident the takeover of Southend United is close to being completed.

Echosport understands current chairman Ron Martin held positive talks with Tony Cox, the leader of Southend Council, on Monday.

And, in a statement published on Facebook, Firth - the MP for Southend West - confirmed the deal is edging closer to being done.

Firth said: "Given the events of the weekend, I wanted to take the time to update fans today on the work I am doing to support our fantastic football team, Southend United, both on the pitch and behind the scenes.

"I completely understand the frustration felt from fans at the lack of updates and I want to reassure you all that work is ongoing behind the scenes and that all parties remain 100 per cent committed to completing the deal as soon as practical.

"I have been in contact with Cllr. Tony Cox, the Leader of Southend Council constantly since Thursday and have absolutely no doubt that the Council are doing everything within their power to progress the deal.

"Cllr. Cox and I remain in contact with Mr. Rees and Mr. Martin and I am confident that the deal is close."

Justin Rees and the consortium agreed heads of terms to buy Blues at the start of October but have yet to officially complete the deal.

Speaking at the Shrimpers Trust AGM on Thursday, Rees explained the remaining issue was between Ron Martin and the council but that he was pushing to get the deal done within the next two weeks.