SOUTHEND United chairman Ron Martin has explained why members of the Shrimpers squad are still waiting to be paid for December.

The players were due to be paid on New Year’s Eve.

But Martin insisted it was not an issue and expected everyone to receive their salaries today.

“There was a shortfall in accounts just before Christmas,” Martin told TalkSport.

“I couldn’t get the paperwork together in time to get it transferred until the lawyers returned yesterday.

“They’re being paid today.

“I think it’s five or six (players).

“I’m not sure how many but it’s not an issue.

“It just goes to show the club are totally reliant on me.

"If I’d had earlier notice I’d have been able to deal with it sooner."

Echosport also understands that members of the backroom staff have also yet to receive their wages.