FUMING Southend United fans will protest against the club's controversial chairman Ron Martin this weekend.

The Shrimpers are still waiting to discover if they will be allowed to line up in the National League this season.

And supporters are now determined to make their feelings clear on Saturday.

A joint supporters group statement said: "With potentially a matter of days left until the National League revokes Southend United's licence, we have reached a critical juncture.

"The combined supporters' groups have therefore agreed to undertake immediate and direct action.

"We invite you to join us on the corner of Essex Way, Vicarage Hill and Benfleet Road this Saturday, 15th July for a sensible and lawful protest.

"This will take place between 10am and 8pm and will be rolling in nature, giving fans the flexibility to come and go as they please or to join us for a while at a time that suits them.

"Bring your placards, signs, posters and leaflets and make your feelings clear, but a zero tolerance policy on alcohol will be in effect.

"The damage that Ron Martin has done to our beloved football club is unforgiveable, and he must pay his debts and leave now."

The Shrimpers were back in the High Court in Wednesday and were given another 42 days to pay off a £275,000 debt to HMRC.

Staff at the club have not been paid for three months while some have not been paid for four and the club remain in a transfer embargo.

The players stopped training together for a week as they waited for their own wages and are still without medical attention due to that department having not been paid.

Water was also cut off at the Boots & Laces training ground this week and it remains to be seen if the Shrimpers will be able to begin their pre-season friendlies this weekend.

Tuesday night's match with Canvey Island had to be postponed and it is unclear whether Saturday's clash with Billericay Town will be able to go ahead.

The National League season kicks off on Saturday August 5 with Blues due to host Oldham Athletic.