Southend United: 'Back of house' staff still unpaid after judge unfreezes bank account

Southend United have been based at Roots Hall since 1955

Some "back of house" staff at National League side Southend are still waiting for unpaid wages despite a judge unfreezing the club's bank account.

A judicial order was secured last week to enable players and coaches to receive their May salaries.

And a court heard on Monday that a potential buyer had shown "genuine interest" in the club.

Other staff are, however, still awaiting "March and/or April" wages despite last week's order.

"This is obviously an incredibly unsatisfactory position," a Shrimpers' statement said.

"We are very sorry about the delay in making payments. Our staff have been patient and loyal, all those affected will be rewarded."

The club say that unfreezing the account will "enable the business to continue to function pending the takeover".

The next winding-up hearing over an unpaid tax bill of £275,000 is scheduled for 12 July.

But the club's barrister told an Insolvency and Companies Court hearing on Monday: "There is a possibility that the petition may simply be dismissed."

The Southend statement added: "In advance of that date, the club must pay the petition debt (due to HMRC) and the debt of those supporting the petition, we also need to bring staff salaries up to date.

"In relation to that, the club continue to explore financing options (as it did back in March when a substantial debt to HMRC was paid). In addition, the club remain in conversation with interested parties who would like to purchase the club."

Chairman Ron Martin put Southend up for sale in March, saying that felt "the time was right".

And last month, the club - who, the court heard, are "trading insolvently" - confirmed that talks were taking place with "three interested parties".

That number may, though, be now down to one as the judge said: "There is genuine interest from a party who appears to have the funds. It is significant and encouraging."

The Shrimpers lost their place in the English Football League two years ago and finished eighth in National League in 2022-23, one place and two points outside the play-off places.