SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher has welcomed the new feel good factor surrounding the Shrimpers.

Blues fans have snapped up more than 3,000 season cards in just six days after the consortium headed up by Justin Rees completed their takeover of the National League club.

And Maher is determined to give the fans plenty to cheer this season.

“We all know what this club could be and the supporters have been with us in big numbers all the way through,” said the Shrimpers head coach.

“There’s still a lot of hard work to be done but I’m just so pleased for the supporters and everyone connected with the club that the takeover has happened.

“You can really sense a feel-good factor which is brilliant and we’ll do all we can to keep on giving the fans a team to be proud of.”

(Image: Official - Southend United's new owners)

The takeover was officially filed on the Companies House website yesterday along with the termination of appointment of Ron Martin.

And supporters at Roots Hall are excited for what the future now holds.

Blues fan Isla Broadhead said: “It’s the same things really but coming here today there’s stock in the shop, work is being down on the scoreboard and there’s a new sign saying Southend United which doesn’t have the letters falling off anymore.

(Image: New sign - for Southend United at Roots Hall)

“It many ways that’s indicative of what’s happening here now and after so much misery for so, so long it’s just so refreshing.

“The fans deserve it too and so do Kev and the players for sticking with us.”

Rees has now been confirmed as the club’s new chairman and is flying over for Saturday’s pre-season friendly against Gillingham at Roots Hall.