A WHOLE host of Shrimpers stars have reunited to help boost a club legend.
Former Southend United defender Micky Stead - who made 341 appearances for Blues between 1978 and 1985, is no longer able to work after spending three months in hospital earlier this year with a severe blood clot.
And a number of Shrimpers favourites got back together to raise funds for the 67-year-old with a well-attended match at Bowers & Pitsea's Len Salmon Stadium on Sunday.
The game, played between a side made up of ex Blues stars and the Carli Lansley Foundation, was put on by the Southend United Ex Players Association.
And organiser Andy Leeder was delighted with how the day went “It was a wonderful afternoon, the weather despite unfavourable forecasts mostly was fine and it was great to see so many fans come along to the Len Salmon Stadium," said Leeder.
"The good folks who run operations at Bowers & Pitsea once again proved to be great hosts having also helped us with our Match for James Walker last year.”
“It was an autograph-hunters dream with so many former players present, around 35 in total which made it our largest ex-players gathering since SUEPA was formed just over six years ago.”
Current Blues boss Kevin Maher was among those in action along with fellow former favourites Steve Tilson, Adam Barrett, Simon Royce, Mark Bentley and Lee Barnard.
And there were also famous faces in the crowd including ex England managers Peter Taylor and Glenn Hoddle.
Leeder added: “Former England managers Glenn Hoddle and Peter Taylor gave the legends team opposition the Carli Lansley Foundation a team talk prior to kick-off which was a lovely gesture.
"Both gentlemen proved to be extremely popular guests and didn’t hesitate to agree to every autograph and selfie request.”
Both teams applauded Stead onto the pitch before kick off.
And Leeder was pleased to have been able to help the ex Blues star.
"Micky was applauded on to the pitch by both teams and gave a brief but emotional speech to thank everyone for coming along to the game," said Leeder.
"He had to walk with the aid of sticks and has had a terrible time health-wise of late.
"But this match, and a meal we had with some of his old teammates the night before, I believe have proved to be a huge boost to help with his recovery.
“This has been a superb example of our club and its fans coming together to help one of our own at a time of need.
"It is what SUEPA is all about.”
The match ended in an 8-6 win for the side made up of ex Southend United players.
The amount raised has yet to be fully calculated but donations can still be made via the Shrimpers Trust website
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