Southend 'stronger for summer of change' - chairman

Rees called on Southend's supporters to show patience to new boss Kieron Dyer in his first managerial role [Warren Muggleton/BBC] Southend United chairman Justin Rees says the club will be "stronger for the changes we've made" as they seek to end their EFL exile. The Shrimpers, relegated from League Two in 2021, have made the National League play-offs in consecutive campaigns and won last season's FA Trophy. Kevin Maher was sacked as boss two days after their Wembley win, and replaced by former Ipswich Town, Newcastle United and England midfielder Kieron Dyer in June. Rees said there was "no talk of a transitional season" but called on supporters to show "patience" to Dyer and recently appointed director of football Oliver Gage. "Everyone's focused on being successful this year but we need to give them some space," said Rees. "Kieron has already said he'll set the standards. He wants to target promotion, we feel we have a competitive budget but we know other teams will too." Australian businessman Rees led the COSU consortium (Custodians of Southend United) which took over the club from former owner Ron Martin in 2024 following years of financial problems which had threatened the club's existence. Speaking to BBC Essex on the second anniversary of the takeover, Rees said taking Southend to League One was COSU's "minimum" aim, but resisted placing a timeframe on the target. "We've made decisions and the fanbase will ultimately be able to judge us in a year, two years, as to whether they were the right decisions," he said. "A bit of support and space is what our guys will need to be their best. I'm sure we'll be up there."