National League issue Southend United licence but warn of sanctions

THE NATIONAL LEAGUE have issued Southend United a licence to kick-off the 2023-24 season after their football creditor debts were cleared.

But they warned of a ten points deduction should they fail to meet two conditions including paying off their HMRC debt at the next court hearing on August 23.

The crisis club have been under a transfer embargo since last September and only returned to pre-season action last Saturday at Bishop’s Stortford having cancelled friendlies with Canvey Island and Billericay Town.

Fans have protested outside owner Ron Martin’s home pleading for the sale of the club.

In a statement, the league said: “The National League appreciate the current unsettling time for the supporters of Southend United FC and would like to set out the current position.

“Following extensive and positive dialogue, including sight of suitable evidence provided by the Club, appropriate steps are being made by the Club to satisfy the League and secure its participation in the 2023/24 Vanarama National League season.

“The Club has now cleared the debts owed to football creditors and as such the League has issued a licence for the Club to participate in the 2023/24 Season.

“The Club, who can now move forward to commence the season, are also required to fulfil the following conditions:

“a. The Club HMRC debt is to be discharged in full by their next court date, 23 August 2023. It should be noted that this remains a requirement from the League even if the court hearing is further adjourned past the 23 August 2023.

“b. In addition, having discharged all outstanding Football Creditors, and all HMRC debt by 23 August 2023, it will be a condition of the license to ensure all new or any Football Creditors debts or HMRC debt are cleared on time to the satisfaction of the League at any point during the 2023-2024 season.

“Should the above, set out in a or b not be satisfied, the Club will be subject to an immediate and automatic 10 points deduction.

“This is in addition to any other action deemed appropriate by the League when considering any new debt.

“The League has made it clear to the Club the importance that not only the current debt is settled but the Club operates in a manner that ensures they operate sustainably moving forward.”