SOUTHEND United fans have spoken of their sadness after fears for the club's future intensified this evening.

The National League today confirmed Blues will be required to post a bond of £1million in order to kick off the forthcoming campaign.

And Shrimpers supporters are now seriously worried what will happen next.

Lifelong fan Christopher Bent said: "I'm absolutely deflated and close to tears.

"Feels like the death knell we’ve been fearing.

"Going to take something unbelievable to save us from here.

"Wednesday is going to be awful, short of a miracle.

"Ron Martin if you have even half a heart sign the club over to COSU now to give us a chance."

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The consortium headed up by Justin Rees exchanged contracts with Martin for the sale of the club just before Christmas but have yet to officially take control due to revised plans for the Fossetts Farm project which have yet to be agreed.

And Karen Mace believes it should be Martin and not the club who are punished. 

"It's heart-breaking and sickening that the actions of one man can just seem to wipe out the entire history of a whole football club," said Mace.

"The punishment should be on him.

Blues are also back in the High Court on Wednesday due to a winding up petition from Stewarts Law and PG Site Services which totals £500,000.

And Paul Harrison is among those who fear the Shrimpers will not survive the summer. 

"This surely kills us off," said Harrison.

"Why and how would the consortium put a £1million bond up, as well as considering clearing a WUP debt, with others then to come out whilst still not owning the club.

"DD will still be required.

"Who will turn our life support machine off? I'm devastated."

And those sentiments were echoed by Dave Molyneux who has spent nearly six decades supporting Blues.

"I'm expecting and fearing the worst," said Molyneux.

"I've had nearly 60 years following the club, including 38 with my lads.

"Great memories in that time as well as the bad ones, but I would take some more of the latter if it guaranteed we survive."

Ian Bush added: "I'm numb, I have no feelings anymore the club is already dead and buried in my eyes."

And John French is also deeply worried.

He said: "I just can't comprehend not ever stepping foot inside Roots Hall again.

"It was over 67 years ago when I first went to a Blues game with my dad and grandfather.

"Now going to football on Saturdays and Tuesday nights are my quality time with my two grown up sons."