SOUTHEND United supporters have continued to express their shock at the impending departure of Geoffrey King as the club’s chief executive.

As was exclusively revealed in yesterday’s Echosport, King is to move aside and concentrate on working for Ron Martin’s property company, Martin Dawn.

Despite attempts by the Echo, Southend United will still not comment on the situation.

But many, including the supporters group the Shrimpers Trust, have been surprised by the development.

“The news Geoffrey King is to step down as chief executive, if confirmed, is somewhat unexpected at this time,” said Robert Craven, a spokesman for the Trust.

“Geoffrey may not have endeared himself to all supporters during his tenure at the club and his views were often outspoken and, on occasions, antagonising towards the fan base. However, it is the belief of the Shrimpers Trust Geoffrey always felt what he was doing was right for the club at that time, even if was not what supporters wanted to hear.

The Trust also insisted King had worked hard during a difficult time and also had plenty of input in to the club’s work in the community.

“As well as that he was proactive in setting up the Youth Development Committee and these areas have been success stories and will aid the club’s standing in the future,” added Craven.

“The Trust has enjoyed a largely good working relationship with Geoffrey, and we would like to wish him all the best for the future.”

King’s departure was also discussed on the popular fans website shrimperzone.com.

And the site’s Ken Jarvis revealed most fans were pleased he was leaving.

“I think the majority of people writing on the zone think it’s good news,” said Jarvis.

“Lots of the fans brought up the way he criticised Alex Revell when he left and that did annoy a lot of people.

“But others did praise him for his work.”

King was also a hot topic of conversation among supporters ahead of last night’s FA Cup replay against Macclesfield Town.

FULL STORY IN WEDNESDAY'S ECHO