Southend United chairman Ron Martin believes the club face the most important day in their 100 year history tomorrow.

For that is when Southend Council will decide whether or not to give the Shrimpers' plans of building a 22,000 stadium at Fossetts Farm the go ahead.

Martin is hoping to be supported by Council Members as he insists this will secure the club's future and even more success.

"It's the most important day Southend United have ever had," said Martin.

"We are on an upward spiral of success and a new stadium would help that continue.

"We've taken our attendances from 4,000 to 10,000 and a new stadium would see it rise even further, although it wouldn't immediately be to capacity."

Martin strongly believes that the area of Southend has enormous potential enabling the club to successfully compete at the highest level in the Championship.

A new stadium would boost those aspirations and also allow the Shrimpers to generate income from alternative areas so it would not be reliant on just gate receipts.

That would provide Blues with a financial advantage as additional funds would help them compete for Championship players and enable them to attract more players capable of helping the side secure further triumphs.

But should the Council turn down the applications then Martin is fearful of what may happen.

"Where would we go from there? We have to maintain the growth we have started," he declared.

"The decision would also be great for the whole town because it would put Southend on the map and give us one of the most attractive stadiums in the country."

In a further boost, Martin added that the stadium would not become a financial burden for the Seasiders.

He said the complex would enable Blues to enter their new ground debt free and with a fighting fund.

"That's why it's also important that the Council do not decide to dilute the Club's plans," he said.

The verdict will be announced at Southend Civic Centre in front of the Club's entire playing and backroom staff.

And Martin wants the Shrimpers supporters to attend as he feels this momentous time should be witnessed.

"I think it important for our fans to hear and appreciate what the Council has to say," he said.

"Southend United's future is in members of the Council's hands and supporters should attend so that they can listen - not take part - to what the Council have to say.

"This opportunity for the Club's success has been coming for a long time with many difficulties en route to be overcome and this could be the final hurdle."

Those interested in watching the action are being urged to meet at Roots Hall from 1pm.