ANGRY Blues supporters are planning a protest during a match over the poor performance and the way the club is being run.

Andy Ward has been backing Southend United for more than 40 years and says it's now in a worst state than ever under the ownership Ron Martin.

He's urging as many fans as possible to join on Saturday 9 October during the match of Southend v Chesterfield to have their worries and concerns heard.

But Mr Martin has repeatedly insisted he has the club’s best interests at heart and feels the supporter’s pain.

Mr Ward, 47, from Southend said: "I take my grandson and worry it won't be there for him and others to enjoy in the future with how it's been going.

"There's lots of great fans groups who do lots for the club but nobody is arranging anything so it's just me at the minute.

"Other clubs are demonstrating against their chairmans with success such as Blackpool and Charlton. I just want people to go in the ground and make their voice heard, perhaps with chanting or something.

"I've had about 100 people showing interest and some haven't been for more than 10 years but are on board with this.

"I don't condone any bad behaviour such as going onto the pitch or anything like that but we need to show we're not happy with what's happening."

He said the club has won about 17 out of 130 recent games and is one point away from relegation and losing it's place in the football league.

He said the club has never been in this position in its history despite battling some tough times.

It comes after protests have been held at the club including one in November with a group staging action outside the ground with “#MartinOut” banners.# Mr Martin and Southend Council are currently working hand in hand on major plans for a new stadium – as well as 850 homes – at Fossetts Farm, off Eastern Avenue.

He has also previously said the club has a "young, committed management team who we are backing to get it right."

Mr Ward added: "My family has blue running through it and my friends I met through the club too.

"Some say it's even affecting their mental health and we want Ron Martin out and more investment in the club.

"I just want people to have their voices heard and show how many people are angry at him and don't want him in the club."

Ron Martin and Southend United were contacted for comment.