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Page last updated at 10:54 GMT, Thursday, 22 January 2009

Shrimpers chairman backs Tilson

Ron Martin
Martin said there was money available for new signings for Tilson

Southend United chairman Ron Martin has given manager Steve Tilson his full backing to turn around their fortunes.

The Blues have won seven of their last 21 league matches and are eight points above the drop zone but Martin told BBC Essex: "I'm not one to knee-jerk.

"In the Championship we lost 17 games and I renewed his contract, which speaks volumes for our relationship."

The Roots Hall outfit have been blighted by a series of injuries and suspensions this season.

Alex Revell broke his leg against Leyton Orient on Tuesday.

606: DEBATE
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Martin confirmed there was scope for Tilson to venture into the transfer market to bolster the squad.

"Sometimes the targets don't materialise, either the player doesn't want to come to Southend or the club doesn't accept our bid," he explained.

"Two weeks ago we made a six-figure bid for a player. The club refused and I have upped the bid and we'll find out soon whether that will materialise.

"But there is money there."

Martin also revealed that plans to move to their new Fossets Farm ground have been delayed by the economic downturn.

They were hoping to be playing there in 2010, however Martin said that target has had to be revised.

"Overall, the plans will move back something like 10 to 12 months from what we first hoped and that's a direct result of the banks not being open for business," he explained.

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see also
Southend striker out for season
21 Jan 09 |  Southend
Injuries leave Tilson 'desperate'
21 Jan 09 |  Southend


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