Southend United captain Adam Barrett has refused to comment on speculation surrounding the players' wages - but admits to "a difficult period".
Reports in local and national media have alleged that the club are behind in payments of wages to the squad.
However, Barrett told BBC Essex: "I'm not going to comment on that.
"This has been the most difficult period I've ever had as a footballer and it's very hard. I just hope the club can sort itself out," he added.
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The League One strugglers have a date in the High Court later this month over a disputed tax bill.
HM Revenue and Customs claim Southend owe just over £200,000 in tax but the club maintain they overpaid a tax bill in November.
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