Kevin Maher 'devastated' by Southend Utd sacking

Kevin Maher has been left "absolutely devastated" by his sacking from Southend United, the BBC understands.

The club legend was relieved of his duties within 48 hours of leading the Shrimpers to FA Trophy glory on Sunday, defeating Wealdstone on penalties.

Players and staff also "couldn't quite believe" the decision, according to former Blues midfielder Glenn Pennyfather.

Pennyfather, who played more than 250 games for Southend, said of Maher: "He'll be angry, he'll be disappointed, he'll be sad."

Those in attendance at the club's awards evening on Monday were said to have been shocked by news Maher was about to be sacked, along with coaching staff Darren Currie and Mark Bentley.

Pennyfather, who hosted the event, said: "It was palpable the togetherness. The love that was pouring out at the time for Kevin was quite incredible.

"The people there couldn't quite believe the fact that Kevin's job was even getting talked about, let alone being on the line at a board meeting the next day."

Maher was Southend's record appearance holder as a player after a 10-year spell at the club and went on to attain the same title in the dugout.

Southend finished sixth in the National League - losing in the play-offs to Scunthorpe United - and the club said his departure followed a review of the season.

The BBC understands there had been tension behind the scenes after a director of football, Oliver Gage, was appointed in April.

Pennyfather said it appeared Maher and Gage were not aligned and "the writing was on the wall" as a result.

However, he said it was a "brave decision" to sack Maher, who had done "an incredible job".

In a statement on Tuesday evening, the club said it was "the right moment to start the next chapter" and a comprehensive search for a new head coach was under way.

"Kevin and his staff have played a hugely important role during a significant period in the club's history.

"Since the COSU [Custodians of Southend United] takeover, they have helped stabilise the football club, delivered back-to-back top-seven finishes, taken us to Wembley on two occasions, and on Sunday, delivered our first domestic cup triumph."

The club, which was taken over by COSU in July 2024, said Maher left "with his status as a club legend firmly cemented".

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