SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher insists he will remain loyal to his players this season.

The Shrimpers - who head to AFC Fylde tomorrow - have higher expectation levels surrounding them this term following the completion of the consortium’s takeover.

But Maher will not lose sight of what his squad have already achieved.

“I know things have changed round here in terms of a takeover and the pressure is different but these players haven’t changed,” said the Blues boss.

“What they need is a bit of help and we’ve got to improve the squad.

“The perception of them may change but nothing has changed in terms of us working hard day to day.

“They’re the same players who never gave up on the club so they have my full support and they’ll keep going.

“They show that time and again and any time they’re questioned they’ll respond.”

The Shrimpers have taken six points from their first five games.

And Maher is expecting another stern test tomorrow.

“It’s a tough one and it’s a tough place to go,” said Maher.

“We got a result there last year but they had played on the Thursday before we played them on the Saturday.

“We’ve watched their games and they’re a good side.

“(Nick) Haughton is a threat with the goals he’s got consistently over a number of years now too.

“He’s an obvious threat but they’ve got some good players right across the pitch, they’re well organised and well coached too.”