Chris Phillips

Former Southend United goalkeeper Steve Arnold recalls the club’s chaotic 2-0 defeat at Solihull Moors in October 2021, when chairman Ron Martin entered the away end amid supporter anger. Arnold describes his two-year spell at Southend, including difficult facilities, winning the club’s player of the year award and considering it the highlight of his career despite the club’s off-field troubles. He also welcomes former Sutton United teammate Jack Sims’s move to Southend and explains that he now works full-time as a painter and decorator after hip problems ended his playing career.

Southend United right-back Vontae Daley-Campbell is eager to establish himself as a regular starter after struggling to secure consistent playing time at previous clubs. He praised manager Kieron Dyer’s honesty and tactical ideas, while expressing confidence that Southend can challenge for success after winning their opening two matches. The team next faces Solihull Moors, whom Daley-Campbell expects to provide a difficult test.

Southend United head coach Kieron Dyer wants to strengthen several areas of the squad, including the forward and full-back positions. He says tactical flexibility and the ability of players such as Dan Cox and Harry Taylor to operate in different defensive roles provide some cover, although right-back remains an area of concern. Dyer is satisfied with the club’s four central midfielders and believes the centre-back options are strong, but is open to additions in most other positions.

A Solihull Moors supporter assesses the club’s winless start, attributing the poor performances to an imbalanced squad, injuries, defensive vulnerability and uncertainty in the final third. Despite two defeats and seven goals conceded, the squad is viewed as having mid-table or playoff potential, with Jacob Wakeling, Joe Sbarra and Ben Wodskou highlighted as key players. The team faces further selection concerns ahead of Southend United, including injuries to Oscar Rutherford, Ben Worman and Tyrell Warren, while Jamie Andrews and Conor Wilkinson have returned.

Southend United manager Kieron Dyer says Anthony Hartigan, Darren Oldaker and Oli Coker form the National League's best midfield group. He praises their control, progressive passing, intelligence and versatility, while singling out Oldaker after his strong performance against Scunthorpe United and explaining that he was surprised Chesterfield allowed the midfielder to leave. Southend travel to Solihull Moors with the trio competing for selection.

Southend United midfielder Rico Richards will have to wait several more weeks to make his debut after suffering a hamstring setback. Manager Kieron Dyer said Richards had arrived from Port Vale with an ongoing issue, appeared to have recovered, but felt the hamstring again and required a scan. The club considers the injury a blow but expects Richards to make a significant contribution once fit.

Southend United manager Kieron Dyer is considering moving sooner for a new striker as the club prepares for three matches in six days with only 18 or 19 outfield players. Dyer wants to secure a preferred target rather than settle for a third or fourth choice, but acknowledges injuries could expose the squad’s lack of depth. Harry Cardwell and Charley Kendall are currently Southend’s only strikers, while former Colchester forward Samson Tovide continues training with the club after speaking to a League One side.

Southend United winger Sahid Kamara is enjoying the attacking freedom given to him by the manager and wants to continue showcasing his creativity. After making an impact as a substitute against Altrincham and impressing in the starting lineup against Scunthorpe, Kamara has helped the club begin the season with two wins and is aiming to keep improving.

Southend United supporters praise the team's 1-0 victory over Scunthorpe United at Roots Hall, highlighting a stronger defensive performance, energetic pressing and a more purposeful style of play. Jack Oldaker, Harry Cardwell and several other players receive particular acclaim, while fans say the team could have won by a wider margin. The performance has raised expectations of a successful season and a possible title challenge.

Southend United's women's team begin their new season at home against Hertford Town after narrowly avoiding relegation from Division One South of the Eastern Region Women's Football League last season. Forward Abbey Dell says new additions, productive pre-season training and lessons from friendly matches have boosted the team's confidence. She aims to score more goals, while the team hopes to finish as high as possible and compete for silverware.

Southend United defeated Scunthorpe United 1-0 at Roots Hall to secure back-to-back wins at the start of the National League season. Josh Popoola scored his first goal for the club in the 23rd minute after Louis Jones saved Harry Cardwell’s shot, while Southend created numerous further chances after halftime. Scunthorpe threatened at times, but Southend held on despite missed opportunities from Cardwell, Ryan Colclough and Charley Kendall.

Former Southend United and Scunthorpe United player Lee Hodges hopes both clubs can earn promotion this season. Hodges, who helped Southend avoid relegation during a 1999 loan spell and later scored 24 goals in 130 appearances for Scunthorpe, is returning to Roots Hall as part of BBC Humberside’s commentary team. He fondly recalls his time at both clubs and also hopes Hornchurch, near his Upminster home, can succeed.

Southend United manager Kieron Dyer says the club is operating with an interim medical team after former head of medical John Gowens left at the end of the previous season. Rob King is currently serving on an interim basis, assisted by Amy Rogers for home matches and former Carlisle physio Sophie Birnie for away games, particularly in the north. The club has advertised a full-time physiotherapy position and expects to appoint someone within the next month or so, while potentially retaining the additional matchday support.

Michael “Micky G” Graham has ended his 18-year spell as Southend United’s PA announcer after the club’s pre-season friendly against Aveley. Graham said he thoroughly enjoyed his time at Roots Hall, highlighted four trips to Wembley and the club’s match against Sunderland, and named interviewing Billy Best as a career highlight. He hopes to cover occasional matches if needed. Ian Gilbert will take over as Southend United’s stadium announcer.

Scunthorpe United have largely retained last season’s squad but lost influential attacker Callum Roberts to Notts County. Supporters see the play-offs as a realistic target, though the club’s smaller budget makes a title challenge less likely. Their 1-1 opening-day draw with Yeovil showed late attacking resilience but exposed defensive vulnerabilities, particularly on the right. Danny Whitehall is identified as the main attacking threat, while manager Andy Butler may consider using a five-man defense against Southend United. Connor Smith’s omission and the selection of Ross Barrows at right-back remain points of uncertainty ahead of the match.

A statistical preview of Southend United’s National League fixture against Scunthorpe United at Roots Hall compares their all-time record, recent meetings and current form. Scunthorpe have the stronger historical record and won all three meetings last season, including the play-offs, while Southend had previously won six consecutive home games against them. The preview also identifies referee Stephen Parkinson and highlights player-related facts involving Luke Brennan, Harry Taylor and Ryan Colclough.

Southend United’s fan panel reflects on the team’s 3-1 comeback win at Altrincham and previews the first home match against Scunthorpe United. Supporters praise Kieron Dyer’s early tactical changes, the team’s attacking threat, strong bench and improved adaptability, while noting defensive uncertainty and the need for the squad to settle. Competition for places is viewed positively, with possible changes involving Kamara, Kendall and the returning Rico Richards. Roots Hall is expected to provide a strong atmosphere as Southend begin the new era.

Southend United midfielder Leon Parillon says he is determined to repay manager Kieron Dyer’s faith after being told he can become one of the National League’s best players. Parillon scored in Southend’s 3-1 win at Altrincham and aims to add more goals and assists while contributing from any attacking position. He remains committed to Southend despite summer interest from Notts County and shares the club’s ambition of achieving promotion.

Southend hurdler Sam Bennett won his 110m hurdles heat at the European Championships in Birmingham in 13.57 seconds, advancing to the semi-finals as the third-fastest qualifier from his session. Despite running into a strong headwind, Bennett said his priority was simply to qualify and gain experience in a major championship environment. The Commonwealth Games silver medallist remains focused on staying healthy and adapting during a make-or-break season, while maintaining his ambition to win every race.

Altrincham manager Neil Gibson said Southend United defender Vontae Daley-Campbell could have been sent off before Altrincham’s Matty Kosylo received two yellow cards in a 3–1 National League defeat. Gibson accepted Kosylo’s dismissal but argued that Southend might also have been reduced to 10 men, which could have changed the match. He nevertheless praised Altrincham’s resilience against a Southend side he expects to challenge near the top of the league.

Southend United supporters reacted positively to the club's 3-1 opening-day victory at Altrincham. Fans praised the team's second-half improvement, attacking options, midfield performances and the impact of substitutes including Kamara and Colclough. While some identified defensive concerns, a slow start and a lack of attacking depth, the overall mood was optimistic about Kieron Dyer's largely new squad and the season ahead.

Kieron Dyer began his Southend United tenure with a 3-1 National League victory at Altrincham. Southend initially struggled with Altrincham’s pressing and conceded first, but Dyer adjusted the press at half-time and used substitutes Sahid Kamara and Ryan Colclough to turn the match in his side’s favor. Goals from Leon Parillon, Oli Coker and Harry Cardwell secured the win, helped by Matty Kosylo’s dismissal for Altrincham. Dyer also defended Cardwell and Charley Kendall amid calls for Southend to sign another striker, highlighting Cardwell’s recent scoring form.

Southend United recovered from an early Tom Crawford goal to beat Altrincham 3–1 in the opening National League fixture. Leon Parillon equalised before Oli Coker put Southend ahead after an Altrincham goalkeeper error, and Harry Cardwell sealed the win late on. Altrincham’s comeback chances were further reduced when Matty Kosylo was sent off, while Southend comfortably saw out the match in front of 801 travelling supporters.

Southend United are introducing an under-23 team to accelerate the development of players who could progress to the first team. Youth-team coach Danny Heath says the new programme will provide greater competition and more challenging matches, while allowing players who miss out on under-23 selection to gain playing time with the under-19s or under-17s. Several young players, including Mitchell Ward, Nikolay Zlatev, Josh Barrett and Jack Stone, are expected to form part of the group, with head coach Kieron Dyer already involving some youth players in first-team training and tactical sessions.

Southend United's new season raises five key questions: whether Harry Taylor can adapt from a back-three role to a four-man defence, how Leon Parillon will fit into midfield amid competition and outside interest, whether Harry Cardwell can recover his previous scoring form, and how effectively the team can implement a 4-2-3-1 system focused on playing out from the back. The club's exceptional support is another major storyline, with more than 700 fans travelling to Altrincham and over 5,500 season cards sold.

Southend United chairman Justin Rees outlines COSU’s plans to rebuild the club after its July 2024 takeover. The ambitions include establishing Southend as a stable English Football League club, regenerating Roots Hall, increasing year-round revenue and improving financial sustainability. Rees says success will require organisational reform across every department, stronger standards and continued community engagement, while promotion remains the club’s clear sporting objective.

The new National League season is expected to be more open after York City and Rochdale secured promotion with more than 100 points each last season. Carlisle United are bookmakers’ favourites despite changing managers, while Boreham Wood and Hartlepool United are also viewed as strong contenders. Forest Green Rovers are expected to invest heavily in pursuit of a return to the EFL, whereas Scunthorpe United may be weakened by key departures. AFC Fylde, Kidderminster Harriers, Worthing, Hornchurch, Barrow and Harrogate Town are the newcomers.

Southend United have appointed 23-year-old midfielder Oli Coker as their new captain, with centre-back Harry Taylor named vice captain. Coker, who came through the club’s academy and is its longest-serving player, said he was honored by the role and would lead by example while maintaining his existing work ethic and standards.

Southend United goalkeeper Joe Duncan is aiming to help the club mount a promotion challenge during his season-long loan from Bristol City. The 20-year-old has impressed during pre-season, particularly with his ability to play out from the back, and says manager Kieron Dyer encourages that style. Duncan believes Southend have the quality to compete near the top of the National League and is eager for the season to begin, with Altrincham first up. He also views the move as an important opportunity to continue his development after previous loan spells with Tiverton Town and Farnborough.

Southend United’s supporters are portrayed as the club’s enduring foundation since its formation in 1906. Lifelong fans Dave Brabbing and Brian Colbear describe the friendships and memories created at Roots Hall, while the club’s sale of more than 5,000 season tickets is cited as evidence of continuing support and a factor in its survival during a 2023 High Court hearing. Young supporter Mack Stopher highlights the highs and lows of following the team, including relegations, the 2015 win over Wycombe and the FA Trophy final against Wealdstone.

Former Southend United midfielder Ryan Leonard says the club's dramatic 2015 League Two play-off final victory over Wycombe Wanderers at Wembley remains the greatest moment of his career. Southend won 7–6 on penalties after Joe Pigott's injury-time equaliser, while goalkeeper Daniel Bentley saved two penalties. Leonard, voted the club's player of the decade, retains strong ties to Southend and follows the club despite now playing for Millwall. Bentley and Pigott also describe the Wembley triumph as a defining career memory.

Harry Boyes has joined York City from Southend United for an undisclosed fee after helping Southend register 14 assists and one goal in 51 appearances. The left-back said he leaves Southend with fond memories but was attracted to York by the chance to return to the Football League, move closer to his family and join a club aiming to progress beyond League Two. He chose York over Notts County.

Steve Tilson transformed Southend United after becoming manager in November 2003, guiding the club away from relegation, to promotion from League Two in 2004/05 and then to the League One title the following season. His tenure also included two LDV Vans Trophy final defeats, a run in the Championship and a celebrated League Cup victory over Manchester United. Financial turmoil eventually contributed to Southend's relegation in 2008/09 and Tilson's departure, while former players Adam Barrett and Darryl Flahavan recalled the period as one of the most memorable in the club's history.

New Southend United midfielder Rico Richards missed the pre-season match against Aveley because of a slight hamstring strain. Manager Kieron Dyer said Richards had resumed sprinting, completed a training session and was expected to return to full training on Monday, although he would be behind his teammates due to a lack of match minutes. Dyer praised the former Port Vale player’s ball-carrying ability and expressed confidence that he would become a fan favourite.

Southend United manager Kieron Dyer says the club is still seeking another forward, while stressing that continued discussion of the search should not disrespect current strikers Charley Kendall and Harry Cardwell. Dyer also indicates that the club is targeting another position and expects the squad to be complete after signing two or three more players.

Southend United midfielder Darren Oldaker missed the club's 4-0 pre-season victory over Aveley because of a chronic toe problem for which he had received an injection. Manager Kieron Dyer said Oldaker was doing light training and expected him to resume full training on Monday, making him likely to be fit for the start of the season.

Peter Taylor reflects on making his Southend United debut as an 18-year-old in 1970, helping the club win promotion from Division Four in 1972 and continuing to support the team at Roots Hall. He expresses gratitude for the club and hopes manager Kieron Dyer can lead Southend back up the divisions, while discussing the unexpected departure of Kevin Maher. Former Southend captain Alan Moody also recalls his decade at the club, including a promotion and notable cup runs, particularly the 0-0 draw with Liverpool at Roots Hall before Southend lost the replay at Anfield.

Southend United's record transfer fee rose from Jimmy McAlinden's era through a series of landmark signings, including Mike Beesley, Eddie Firmani, Bill Garner, Tony Taylor, Dave Cusack, Derek Spence and Keith Jones. Barry Fry then sanctioned Gary Poole's £400,000 move from Plymouth Argyle in 1993, before Southend set its current featured high in 1995 by paying £500,000 for former Liverpool midfielder Mike Marsh from Galatasaray.

Former Southend United players Ronnie Pountney and David Crown recall the club’s achievements during the 1980s. Southend won the Fourth Division title in 1980/81, experienced relegation and promotion cycles, and returned to the third tier after Crown scored twice against Peterborough United in 1989/90. The decade also featured memorable League Cup matches against Tottenham Hotspur and Bobby Moore’s two-year managerial spell. Pountney and Crown emphasize their lasting affection for the club and its supporters.

Alan Moody holds Southend United’s all-time appearance record, playing 506 matches between 1972 and 1984 and scoring 44 goals. Sandy Anderson ranks second with 483 appearances and the club’s league appearance record, followed by Kevin Maher with 454, Tony Bentley with 419 and Ronnie Pountney with 403. Maher also holds the club record for total involvement in matches as both a player and manager.

Southend United competed in regional wartime football but suffered from player shortages and stopped playing during the 1941/42 season. The club was revived in 1945 and returned to Division Three for the 1946/47 campaign, finishing eighth. The article then recounts key postwar developments, including record signing Jimmy McAlinden, the long service of Sandy Anderson, the arrival of record goalscorer Roy Hollis, Southend's return to Roots Hall in 1955, and a notable FA Cup defeat by Manchester City watched by 29,500 supporters.

Southend United began at Roots Hall, moved to the Kursaal in 1919, and relocated to Southend Stadium in 1934 after changes to the club's board. During the Second World War, restrictions on Southend forced the team to play at Chelmsford City's New Writtle Street ground from 1940 to 1941. The club returned to Southend Stadium in 1945 before moving back to Roots Hall, its current home, in 1955. The article highlights notable attendances, including 18,153 against Nottingham Forest in 1926 and 22,862 for an FA Cup tie against Tottenham Hotspur in 1936.

Southend United manager Kieron Dyer praised his side’s second-half control after a 4-0 pre-season win over Aveley at Roots Hall. He criticised a chaotic first-half display marked by errors and conceded chances, but was pleased with three unanswered goals after the break, including two from new signing Ryan Colclough. Dyer said the newly assembled squad will need time to adapt to his playing style before beginning the National League season away at Altrincham.

Southend United have accepted a bid for left-back Harry Boyes after rejecting another offer. The 24-year-old had attracted interest from York City and Notts County, and manager Kieron Dyer confirmed that Boyes is set to leave despite continuing to recover from an ankle problem. Dyer praised Boyes for his professionalism and commitment during pre-season.

Southend United completed their pre-season preparations with a 4-0 win over Aveley at Roots Hall. Sahid Kamara opened the scoring early, Harry Cardwell converted a 76th-minute penalty, and substitute Ryan Colclough scored twice late in the match on his first appearance since joining the club.

Southend United was founded at the Blue Boar pub on May 19, 1906, despite opposition from established local amateur clubs, including Southend Athletic. A five-man board was appointed, with Oliver Trigg contributing £861, while Robert Jack became the first manager and former England international George Molyneux the first captain. The club won election to the Southern League Second Division, prepared Roots Hall fields for play and began with a strong inaugural season, winning 14 of 22 matches and taking the championship. Although promotion was initially denied, Southend finished first again the following year and was then allowed to move up, while also making its FA Cup debut in 1907.

Southend United have signed 22-year-old attacking midfielder Rico Richards from Port Vale on a two-year contract, with an option for a further year. Richards said he is targeting promotion with the club while aiming to contribute goals and assists. He previously came through the West Bromwich Albion and Aston Villa academies, played for Stockport County and Port Vale, and spent last season on loan at Walsall. He has also represented England at under-16, under-17 and under-18 level.

Southend United defender Daniel Cox says he is comfortable filling in at left-back or centre-half as required. The summer signing from Derby County has settled quickly, praised the club’s welcome and pre-season preparations, and is looking forward to the final friendly against Aveley before the season opener at Altrincham. Cox says Southend’s ambition and new manager Kieron Dyer’s plans influenced his move, with promotion the team’s main objective.

Southend United head coach Kieron Dyer welcomed defender Harry Taylor’s return from a heel injury in the second half of the pre-season match against Leyton Orient. Taylor had trained for only a week but was praised for coping without the ball. New winger Ryan Colclough has yet to play and is expected to feature against Aveley, while Dyer says the squad remains two or three players short but is confident Southend can begin the league season positively.

Southend United manager Kieron Dyer says goalkeeper Jacob Knightbridge is the only remaining trialist after Sahid Kamara and Tommy Backwell secured contracts and several other trialists departed. The club is still seeking a backup goalkeeper and another striker, with Dyer acknowledging that striker recruitment has been difficult. Charley Kendall has impressed while playing on the wing but is expected to contribute more centrally once another forward is signed.

Southend United defender Harry Boyes missed the friendly against Leyton Orient because of an ankle injury, rather than because of reported transfer interest from York City. Manager Kieron Dyer said Boyes had been playing through pain and is undergoing a strengthening programme before returning. Dyer also defended Boyes’s commitment to Southend amid speculation, while acknowledging that interest in Boyes and midfielder Leon Parillon is understandable because the club is outside the English Football League.

Southend United drew 1-1 with Leyton Orient in the JE3 Trophy at Roots Hall before losing 5-4 on penalties. Leon Parillon put Southend ahead with a 20-yard strike, but Orient substitute Dominic Ballard equalized after a defensive error. Anthony Hartigan missed Southend’s opening penalty, while the remaining nine spot-kicks were converted, allowing Yusuf Akhamrich to score the decisive penalty for Orient in a match staged to raise awareness for a charity honoring former defender Justin Edinburgh.

Former England striker Jermain Defoe has left his position as Woking manager by mutual consent, two weeks before the club's National League campaign begins. Defoe was appointed on March 29 and won two of six matches, guiding Woking to 10th place in the 2025–26 campaign. The club thanked him and said it remains focused on its sporting and organizational objectives.

Southend United manager Kieron Dyer expects his team to provide a clearer reflection of their ability when they host Leyton Orient in a preseason friendly at Roots Hall. He plans to give players extended playing time to build fitness, with the strongest expected starting lineup likely to feature against Aveley the following weekend ahead of the National League campaign.

Kieron Dyer praised young player Olly Hyams after he came off the bench to score in Southend United’s loss to Northampton Town, noting his strong training performance and confidence. Dyer highlighted his willingness to reward deserving youth players and expressed satisfaction with Hyams’ composed finish.

Kieron Dyer expressed little surprise at Southend United’s 3‑1 pre‑season defeat to Northampton Town after fielding an experimental first‑half lineup featuring trialists. He noted a lack of attacking threat early on but highlighted improved play after the break, particularly down the left flank, despite conceding from a poor back‑pass. Dyer was encouraged by the return of Leon Parillon and the opportunities given to several trialists, viewing the match as a useful step in preparation for the season.

Southend United lost 3-1 to Northampton Town in a pre-season friendly at Roots Hall, conceding three goals before substitute Oli Hyams scored a late consolation. Northampton led early through Max Dyche, added a second via Matty Warhurst, and extended the advantage through Harvey Saunders. Southend made numerous changes throughout the match as manager Kieron Dyer evaluated his squad, with brief attacking moments but limited success in front of goal.

Sahid Kamara, 22, has signed a two‑year deal with Southend United after a successful trial and expressed enthusiasm about joining the club. He praised the atmosphere, the club’s history, and Kieron Dyer’s attacking philosophy, saying he believes he can contribute well to the team.

Tommy Backwell completed a permanent move to Southend United after a trial period, expressing enthusiasm for the club’s playing style under manager Kieron Dyer and aiming to help secure promotion back to the Football League. The 23-year-old midfielder, previously with Southampton and Bristol City at youth level and with loan spells across several lower‑league clubs, recently featured off the bench against West Ham and looks forward to contributing more regularly this season.

Southend United is close to signing Ryan Colclough, who has been training with the team and attended a recent pre-season match. The 31‑year‑old winger brings experience from multiple clubs, including Crewe Alexandra, Wigan Athletic, Altrincham and Chesterfield, where he won the National League title. Colclough has scored 78 goals across 397 appearances and recently left AFC Fylde after a brief spell.

Vontae Daley-Campbell highlights his energetic performance in Southend United’s 1-1 draw with West Ham and vows to maintain high-intensity displays as the team aims for promotion. He praises the squad’s progress under manager Kieron Dyer and emphasizes the importance of pre-season fixtures in helping new players settle in. The defender sees strong potential in the squad’s development but acknowledges the need to improve goal scoring as preparations continue.

Sahid Kamara strengthened his case for a Southend United contract after an impressive performance in a 1-1 pre-season draw with West Ham, earning praise from manager Kieron Dyer for his pace, power and recent form. Six additional trialists were included on the bench, with Anthony Georgiou and Idress Namisi believed to be among them.

Supporters reacted positively to Southend United’s 1-1 draw with West Ham United, praising improved forward play, strong performances from new signings and trialists, and standout midfield contributions from Oldaker and Hartigan. Several players, including Oyebade, Duncan, Popoola and Kamara, received individual commendations, though fans noted the need for additional quality strikers to complete the squad.

Oli Coker impressed Kieron Dyer by captaining Southend United in a 1–1 draw against West Ham United and performing strongly throughout pre-season. Dyer highlighted Coker’s versatility, leadership qualities, and importance to the club, noting he is expected to play a major role in the upcoming season.

Kieron Dyer expressed satisfaction with Southend United’s performance in a 1-1 draw against West Ham United, highlighting strong signs from a squad featuring six summer signings. He acknowledged pre-match nerves and the physical superiority of the Premier League opposition but praised his players' conditioning and the work of fitness coach Elliot Turner. Dyer expects several additional signings before the season starts and noted that preseason fixtures against higher-level opponents have made it difficult to gauge the team’s true readiness, though performances have been encouraging.

Southend United drew 1–1 with West Ham United in a pre-season match at Roots Hall, taking the lead through a Harry Cardwell penalty before Konstantinos Mavropanos equalised with a header. Both sides created chances, with West Ham hitting the post and Southend threatening from distance, and heavy second-half substitutions prevented either team from finding a winner.

Southend United prepare to host West Ham United at a sold‑out Roots Hall, with midfielder Anthony Hartigan anticipating a valuable early pre‑season test. New manager Kieron Dyer oversees his first home match as the team looks to build on behind‑closed‑doors friendlies against Ipswich Town and Cambridge United.

Southend United announced job vacancies, including a new stadium announcer, as longtime announcer Michael Graham prepares to step down after more than 400 league matches since 2008. Graham will work one final match during an upcoming pre-season friendly, and the club publicly expressed gratitude for his 18 years of service. Additional openings in the commercial and media departments have also been posted.

Kevin Keen describes Rayan Oyebade’s loan move from West Ham United to Southend United as an ideal next step, emphasizing the need for regular senior football after strong performances at youth levels. He highlights Oyebade’s athletic qualities, versatility on the left side of defense and potential for growth under Kieron Dyer. The move is expected to benefit both the player and Southend, with West Ham able to monitor his progress closely.

Southend United will host an open day called Meet the Shrimpers on July 27 at Roots Hall after plans for a larger community event were cancelled due to licensing delays. Supporters will be able to watch the squad train and meet players for autographs, with free tickets available through the club's website.

Southend United reached their highest season ticket total in two decades, with 5,315 sold ahead of the upcoming campaign, surpassing all totals since their 2006–07 Championship season. Manager Kieron Dyer praised the supporters’ passion and said the figure reflects the club’s stature within the National League.

Four young Southend United players—Nikolay Zlatev, Jack Stone, Joshua Barrett, and Mitch Ward—have signed professional contracts and expressed determination to progress toward first‑team involvement. Each highlighted excitement about development opportunities and the benefits of loan spells and training under coach Danny Heath, who is credited with fostering youth talent.

A young Southend United squad secured a 2-0 pre-season victory at Romford with goals from Nikolay Zlatev and Brandon Dadson. Coach Danny Heath highlighted the team’s strong performance against a previously successful opponent and viewed it as a promising foundation for the upcoming season. The squad consisted entirely of players under 20, offering encouraging signs ahead of further preparations.

Fans in Southend celebrated Jude Bellingham’s two goals that sent England past Norway into the World Cup semi-final, expressing pride in his local connections. Supporters praised his performance while acknowledging England’s nervous display and the challenge posed by upcoming opponents Argentina. Confidence remained that England’s key players and coaching could make a difference in the next match.

Anthony Hartigan highlights the importance of pre-season as Southend United integrates a rebuilt squad and prepares for a series of friendlies. He emphasizes fitness, tactical cohesion, and strong support from fans as key factors for a successful campaign, expressing confidence in the club’s direction under Kieron Dyer.

Four Southend United players—Jack Stone, Joshua Barrett, Mitchell Ward and Nikolay Zlatev—have signed one‑year professional contracts as part of a new under‑23 squad designed to bridge the gap between youth and first‑team football. Youth coach Danny Heath describes the initiative as an important step providing a clear pathway for developing players, with the group set to take part in first‑team training and receive specialised full‑time coaching ahead of their first scheduled fixture against Romford.

Slavi Spasov has transferred from Southend United to Yeovil Town after scoring nine goals in 32 appearances last season. He becomes the 18th player to leave Southend and the second to join Yeovil this summer. Southend thanked him for his contributions in an official statement.

Slavi Spasov is expected to leave Southend United after one season to join Yeovil Town, becoming the 18th departure from last year’s squad and the second player to make the same move this summer. His exit occurs amid significant squad changes under new head coach Kieron Dyer, who has already made eight signings and is preparing for the upcoming National League season.

Southend United released their new yellow away kit, showcased in a launch video featuring partners c2c and Gilbert & Rose. c2c’s head of communications expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration and upcoming season as the club prepares for kickoff next month.

Southend United’s 120th anniversary will be marked by a 24‑page Echo supplement, and supporters are invited to submit their favourite matches, players, and managers for inclusion, with entries also qualifying for a club shirt prize draw.

Southend United have signed 19‑year‑old goalkeeper Joe Duncan on a season‑long loan from Bristol City. Duncan, who has prior loan experience with Tiverton Town and Farnborough and has been involved with Jamaica’s U23 and senior training camps, said he was eager to join after witnessing Southend’s strong fan support at Wembley last season.

Jude Bellingham’s connection to Southend is traced through his father Mark, a prolific non‑league striker who starred for Catholic United and inspired fond memories within the club. Local figures recall Mark’s goal‑scoring feats and his long‑standing support for Southend United, while Jude himself has maintained ties by following the club in his youth. As Bellingham excels on the World Cup stage, those in Southend celebrate both his rise and the family’s enduring links to the area.

Peter Taylor expresses confidence in England’s chances of winning the World Cup after their 3-2 victory over Mexico secured a quarter‑final match against Norway. He highlights England’s strong performances, the early exits of major rivals, and the impressive form of Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane. Taylor reflects on Kane’s development, praising his professionalism and character, and compares his rise to that of Frank Lampard.

Southend United signed wing-back Vontae Daley-Campbell on a one-year contract as their seventh addition of the summer. Manager Kieron Dyer expressed enthusiasm for the signing, highlighting the player’s experience at higher levels and strong physical qualities. Daley-Campbell previously played for Leicester City, Dundee, Cardiff City, Peterborough United, and Chesterfield, where he worked with Dyer.

Southend United have signed 19-year-old defender Rayan Oyebade on a season-long loan from West Ham United, marking the sixth addition under manager Kieron Dyer. Oyebade, who has represented England at under-15 level and now plays for Greece’s under-19 team, expressed excitement about gaining his first senior football experience and confidence in Dyer’s trust in his abilities.

Southend United introduced the Only Blue membership scheme, costing £10 per month, with funds directed exclusively to the football department to support squad strengthening, transfers and infrastructure. Chairman Justin Rees highlighted its potential impact as supporters gain access to priority ticket windows, exclusive content, prize draws and quarterly events. The club emphasised transparency through regular updates and an annual impact report, while members also receive an exclusive scarf and structured ticketing priority for high‑demand fixtures.

Kieron Dyer aims to secure at least two additional signings for Southend United while targeting experienced players and potential Premier League loanees to strengthen key positions including full‑backs, centre‑back and goalkeeper. Several trialists are being assessed as preparations continue ahead of a behind‑closed‑doors match on July 11, with Dyer hoping to have most of the squad assembled before preseason fixtures begin.

Southend United will host Aveley in their final pre-season match before the National League season begins, adding to a July schedule that includes a sold‑out home fixture against West Ham United. Aveley, last season’s Isthmian League Premier Division playoff contenders, aim for another promotion push, while Southend target a strong league campaign with four warm‑up matches at Roots Hall.

Lewys Twamley has signed a two‑year deal with Southend United, aiming to bring goals and creativity after a strong season with Merthyr Town. The 22‑year‑old expresses gratitude to his former club and highlights the appeal of working under new manager Kieron Dyer. Southend see him as a flair player capable of contributing at a higher level as the club undergoes significant squad changes.

Daniel Cox has signed a two‑year contract with Southend United after leaving Derby County, where he spent 14 years and captained the under‑21s. The 20‑year‑old defender said he was excited to join a club he views as a strong fit for his development, citing manager Kieron Dyer’s commitment to young players as a key factor. Having gained senior experience on loan with Enfield Town, Walsall and Solihull Moors, Cox has already begun pre‑season training and looks forward to playing at Roots Hall. He previously represented Wales at youth levels and reportedly declined higher‑level offers to join Southend.

Kieron Dyer reports strong early fitness levels as Southend United begin seven weeks of pre-season training. He highlights positive initial testing results, smooth introductions to players and staff, and the establishment of a leadership group to guide standards. With significant squad turnover, preparations are focused on building toward a promotion push in the upcoming National League season.