SOUTHEND United supporters have been boosted by the consortium’s commitment to save the club.

A statement from the group headed up by Justin Rees this morning revealed they will try to take control of the Shrimpers before plans for Fossetts Farm are agreed due to the National League’s latest intervention.

The League say Blues must pay a bond of £1million to prove they can kick off the forthcoming campaign unless the club changes hand.

But fans have been lifted by the consortium’s latest update.

“Definitely some positive news and it just shows COSU’s commitment to the club,” said Richard Hollands.

“Ultimately this is down to Ron Martin and his greed.

“He needs to do the right thing now and the new council seem to be doing a good job.”

And Tom Livermore has also been boosted the consortium’s update.

“It’s a positive statement because they are having to be very patient and are showing their commitment and desire to get it done,” said Livermore.

“Let’s hope it can happen and that they don’t get messed around by the usual suspects.”

The consortium swapped contracts for the sale of club with chairman Ron Martin just before Christmas but are still waiting to officially take control as the council continue to hold talks over the revised plans for the Fossetts Farm.

The consortium have now paid close to £4million to keep the Shrimpers going.

But their latest statement has raised the spirits of Steve Street.

He said: “Great statement to receive this morning. Maybe the fat lady who was starting to sing yesterday may get turned away just before the performance is due to start.

“We shall see!

Ryan Sinclair added: “This is difference between a group of owners who genuinely care about the club and are willing to take yet another huge gamble, compared to one who only cares about his own financial gain.

“We’re very lucky to have COSU!”

And Christopher Bent is now also feeling far better about Blues.

“After reading it I’m feeling more positive than I did yesterday evening,” said Bent.

“Just hoping the Martins release their death grip from the club and let us thrive under COSU.

“Tomorrow is still a huge worry though.”

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

And fans are still fearful what might happen next.

Daz Byerley said: “Some hope is there, but after yesterday's National League statement and the fiasco of the due diligence process, I still think this is curtains for our club.

“I could be wrong and deep down, I want to be.

“I genuinely hope COSU can get the takeover over the line and get Ron Martin out once and for all.”