RON’S OFF BUT TRUST ISSUES STILL REMAIN
UNDERFIRE chairman Ron Martin says the process of selling Southend United is now underway – but the fans admit they still have concerns for the future of the club.
The National League Shrimpers avoided a winding-up order earlier this month after a debt to HMRC, believed to be close to £2 million – had been paid off.
Martin revealed on Friday that he was exploring options to sell the Roots Hall club, currently in a National League promotion push, or introduce new investment opportunities, ideally before the start of next season.
But fans group The Shrimpers Trust say they remain worried about the Blues until a new owner is secured.
“This process could take many months,” Martin said. “In an ideal world I’d like to see the transition in time for the new custodian to have their DNA on the club for next year. So by July/August, if they missed that window, it will not be possible. But it won’t be fasttracked and we will not be selling to people who we think won’t be looking after the interests of the club.”
The Trust say they have been in contact with Martin and have arranged a meeting to
discuss the latest developments for later this week.
“Until we get answers to our questions, our stance on season cards remains unchanged,” it said in a statement.
“This process is long overdue considering the continual financial problems that have blighted Mr Martin’s tenure as owner of our club, with repeated winding-up petitions, transfer or registration embargoes and a failure to pay playing and non-playing staff, local suppliers and other creditors on time. Ultimately though, little changes immediately.
“The embargo remains in place due to unresolved issues with HMRC, some staff members are still behind on salaries, and the club’s ability to meet its financial obligations for at least the next three months continues to be in doubt.
“Until any inward investment or sale becomes a reality, we remain concerned about the club’s short-term future.”