SOUTHEND United supporter groups feel the club’s football department are facing an ‘impossible’ job at Roots Hall and will be protesting again on Saturday.

Echosport revealed yesterday how the club’s staff have finally been paid after three months without receiving their salaries.

But the supporter groups remain understandably concerned for Blues’ future.

And, in a statement issued on Tuesday evening, they again stressed the Shrimpers will remain under threat until chairman Ron Martin moves on.

The statement said: “There remains no confirmation from the club that all payments to creditors have been met and, as a result, the job of the football department remains almost impossible.

“Whilst Ron Martin is in charge, Southend United will remain under an existential threat, with the owner doing the bare minimum to support its functionality.

“Supporters can be assured that we are doing all we can to preserve the future of our club.

“The continued game of chess between the owner and any prospective bidders cannot continue.

“There is massive potential within our fanbase.

“Supporters are ready to play their part.

“We firmly believe greater fan representation is crucial to a thriving and sustainable football club, and we would like to speak to any parties who share our vision.”

Supporters have made their feelings clear throughout the summer and will again be protesting outside the house of chairman Ron Martin on Saturday.

The statement added: “We can also confirm that there will be a further responsible and lawful protest against the actions of the current owner between 10:00am and 3:00pm on Saturday, 29th July on the corner of Essex Way, Vicarage Hill and Benfleet Road.

“We encourage supporters to bring placards, signs, posters and leaflets and make your feelings clear, but a zero-tolerance policy on alcohol will again be in effect.”

And further protests could also be held on the opening day of the season against Oldham Athletic.

“Furthermore, should the situation not be resolved, co-ordinated action will take place at the first National League fixture of the season at Roots Hall against Oldham Athletic on Saturday 5th August,” said the statement.

“We have already received public support from the Oldham Athletic Supporters Foundation and will seek to release details of our plans early next week.”