SOUTHEND United have issued a short statement after the National League's request for a £1million bond to be paid.

The Shrimpers have been told to pay up to prove their can fulfil their fixtures for the forthcoming campaign.

And the club have now reacted to the news which means their future is firmly in the balance.

The statement said: "The club was made aware of the National League’s bond request a little earlier today.

"We will consider appropriate steps over the forthcoming days to protect the club’s position pending the sale to the COSU."