SOUTHEND United chairman Ron Martin has reiterated he will own the club’s new stadium but is keen to offload it to whoever buys Blues.

Martin revealed earlier today that he was keen to sell the Shrimpers after 25 years in charge.

But he would ideally like the next owner to buy the club and the new ground at Fossetts Farm should it be built.

Martin said: “We will own the new stadium but if the new owners wanted to buy it then we’re happy to negotiate with them.

“Taking the club and the stadium as one is a very sensible solution but of course that degree of wealth may not be available to everyone interested in buying the club.

“But we’re not interested in being landlords per se.

“We’ll set up the club so it’s sustainable and the income from the stadium will go to the benefit of the football club.”

And when asked about an ideal scenario, Martin stressed: “In an ideal world from day one.

“If that’s not possible then we’re happy to talk to any potential buyer about the purchase of the stadium.

“It should be exciting times for everyone associated with the club."

Get more great stories by Chris Phillips delivered to your inbox every day by signing up to our regular newsletter here