The consortium looking to take over cash-strapped Southend United are still interested in becoming involved with the League One club. The Shrimpers are currently battling a £2.1million tax bill and avoided administration on Wednesday when they pledged to clear their debts by Friday.

A consortium of local businessman had their offer of investment turned down on Monday.

"We are still there and willing to help," spokesman Colin Freedman told BBC Essex. "We just want what is best for the club."

Freedman also admitted to being sceptical over where the club's current board were going to get the money to pay the debts from.

"If they couldn't come up with it by Wednesday, I don't know how they'll come up with it by Friday," he added. "All we can do now is just wait and see."