SOUTHEND United has confirmed “all restrictions” on the club’s bank accounts are to be lifted following a hearing today as backroom staff still wait to be paid for March and April. 

On May 17, a winding up petition brought by HMRC was adjourned until July 12. As a result, the club’s bank account was frozen.

To enable the Blue to make payments to staff, on May 31, the club asked the court to unfreeze the account.

READ MORE >> Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson could be heading to Blues if takeover bid goes ahead

Today, Southend United has confirmed this was successful and a judge has ordered that “all restrictions” are to be listed.

However, despite the players and first team management receiving their pay for May, some of the house staff are still waiting to be paid for March and / or April.

A spokesman for Southend United said: “The application was successful, and players and first team management were paid their May salaries. 

“However, we have not been able to pay other back of house staff, some of whom are still waiting to be paid March and/or April salaries. 

“This is obviously an incredibly unsatisfactory position, and we are very sorry about the delay in making payments. Our staff have been patient and loyal, all those affected will be rewarded. 

“By way of an update, at a further hearing earlier today, the Judge ordered that all restrictions on our bank account be lifted. This will enable the business to continue to function pending the takeover.

“On July 12, the winding up petition will be back before the Court. In advance of that date, the club must pay the petition debt (due to HMRC) and the debt of those supporting the petition, we also need to bring staff salaries up to date. 

“In relation to that, the club continue to explore financing options (as it did back in March when a substantial debt to HMRC was paid). In addition, the club remain in conversation with interested parties who would like to purchase the club. 

“In short, the petition debt and sums due to staff must, and will, be paid before July 12, 2023.”

Last month, it was confirmed that a group of local businessmen – which includes Simon Jackson and Kristofer Tremains from Kimura Capital and members from Integral Sports Management – are in advanced talks with Shrimpers chairman Ron Martin.

It was also revealed that the group had made contact with a-list American actor Dwayne Johnson and his production company, Seven Bucks Productions, are interested in making a documentary on the National League club should the takeover be confirmed.

The club now have until July 12 to pay off their remaining tax debt of £250,000.