SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher feels the Shrimpers started the National League season behind their rivals.

The consortium headed up by Justin Rees did not complete their takeover of the club until mid-July.

And Maher believes it will take time for Blues to hit top form.

READ MORE: Blues boss Maher reacts to draw at Hartlepool

"I’m not making excuses but we’ve started a little bit behind because of everything that’s gone on," said Maher.

"There’s so much to do at the club and the consortium are doing everything they can behind the scenes.

"They’re working tirelessly to make it happen and we are too on the football side of things.

"Once we get going we’ll be a hard team to stop."

And Maher is keen to help that happen by making new signings.

Speaking immediately after Saturday's 0-0 draw at Hartlepool United, the 47-year-old said: "We’ve got a game on Tuesday and over the weekend hopefully we’d like something to happen but you never know until it’s done."

The Shrimpers - who have started the season with back to back draws - are keen to bring in another midfielder and a striker.