Southend poised to sign Jones on loan?

With the transfer deadline looming, rumours are circulating Roots Hall that the forward Southend United are chasing on loan is former West Ham striker Steve Jones.

The move follows pressure from fans to revive the fortunes of the Essex side who are currently lying 13th in the table.

Signing the veteran Jones would meet Paul Sturrock's wishes that any new frontman would be experienced, as he seeks to learn from history, having signed the inexperienced Waide Fairhurst, Nathaniel Jarvis and that one from QPR whose name escapes me, for spectacularly unsuccessful loan spells already this season.

However a stumbling block would be the wages of former Benfleet based front man, especially with the League Two side struggling to pay players and the tax man. Nevertheless fans took time out from calling for owner Ron Martin to go over his financial mismanagement of the club, to demand new signings to boost squad numbers.

The Southend Afternoon Echo will be the first to bring you the news should Southend manage to sign the new Steve Jones on transfer deadline day.

EXCLUSIVE: Ron Martin goes to jail

Controversial Southend United Chairman Ron Martin sensationally has gone to jail, the Southend Afternoon Echo Sportsdesk can exclusively report.

The immacutely haired club owner who has been interviewed by the police over allegations made by his cleaner and also on suspicion of money-laundering and corruption
- although the Southend Afternoon Echo is eager to add no charges were brought on either occasion - sensationally went today to Chelmsford Prison to collect disgraced winger Ryan Hall, who was released on bail pending an appeal over his 20 week sentence for affray.

Ryan Hall will now reportedly be available for both Saturday and Tuesday's crucial encounters for the promotion chasing League Two side.

Ron Martin has been convicted of no offence.