Chairman Ron Martin has today made the following statement:

I have long learnt that whatever decision one makes in football, it will never receive universal approval. Equally making no decision gives rise to criticism….Releasing Paul of his coaching responsibilities gave me no pleasure whatsoever. However, the decision had to be made and was carried out in the most compassionate way.

The Club is not contractually obliged to maintain Paul's salary for the entire period of his unexpired contract and I doubt there are many employers that would take this view. We treat people fairly at Southend United Football Club and that should be recognised. For a long period we have had continuity of management but I repeat change is/was essential to help us stay in League 1 .For the rest of the season Steve Tilson will be assisted by David Webb.