Shrimpers skipper Kevin Maher's dream of holding his testimonial as the first ever match at Fossetts Farm is still alive.

The long serving midfielder - who joined Southend United from Tottenham Hotspur in January 1998 - will be rewarded for his loyalty with a game in honour next year.

And, after Southend Council's nod of approval over the new stadium, Maher hopes it will be the start of a new era.

"It would be brilliant if everything worked out and my testimonial could be the first match at the new ground," said the 30-year-old.

"It's great news for the football club that we have been given the go ahead for a new ground and if we are going to be able to compete and progress then this is what is necessary."

Maher added he had been impressed by the stadium plans which also include a hotel, flats and retail outlets and that he could not wait to run out at the Shrimpers' new home.

"We've been to some amazing grounds in the Championships this year," he said.

"You look at places like Coventry and Leicester City and the facilities there are fantastic but it looks like ours our going to be up to the same standard too and it's brilliant.

"It's what the club needs and it certainly secures a more exciting future for us."

But, despite having a smile stretched across his face, Maher also admitted he would be sad to leave the club's current ground - Roots Hall - where he has been based for the past nine years.

"It's an end of an era and the start of a new one for Southend United," he said.

"I'm sure there are loads of people who have happy memories of Roots Hall and I'm one of them.

"We have won some very memorable matches there, especially over the last three seasons or so but I think everyone realises that this is the way football is going and we need to keep up with the trends."

Maher is now bidding to make it a double celebration for the Shrimpers as they return to Tottenham Hotspur for an eagerly anticipated fourth round FA Cup clash with Tottenham.

"We gave them a good game when we went there before only a few weeks ago in the Carling Cup," said Maher.

"Hopefully on Saturday we will do the same again - only this time with a better score-line."