Don't panic!
If you thought relegation was the beginning of the end of a miserable period in the history of Southend United FC, think again!
An extraordinary statement, in a year full of them, released by the club Wednesday afternoon reveals that the club have not paid many of it's staff in May, (not that it matters, as around 10% of them are going to be sacked); and the League embargo is still in place, (but don't worry folks, we're planning signings for the new season).
According to SUFC it's the Bank Holiday's fault why some of it's staff did not get paid in May, but new technology will make sure we won't miss the ones who are going.
We remain under a Football League embargo but 'this in no way affects the club's plans to recruit for the forthcoming season.'
OK, not sure how they worked that one out, (as it happens the transfer window doesn't open until July 1), however who the hell would want to come here anyway is another matter entirely, and should focus the minds of those who want to get away.
Uncle Ron reminds us again that it's his money that keeping us afloat, 'in excess of £3m', no less. (Though probably Sainsbury's have something to do with that.)
However, a new budget taking in relegation 'will not diminish in any way the Club's ambition to swiftly move up the Leagues.'
Commercial director Ian Riddoch told the official site: "We are not out of the woods yet but these measures, together with the further investment being in the Club coupled with the new Stadium plans, ensure that Southend United has a great future to look forward to."
Beam me up Scotty.
For the full statement, go here:
www.southendunited.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10444~2063712,00.html