SOUTHEND United face another winding-up petition from the tax man, just weeks after settling a massive unpaid bill.

Chairman Ron Martin claims HM Revenue and Customs is handing out the petitions like “confetti”, as Blues join other football clubs like Portsmouth, Notts County, Cardiff City and Plymouth Argyle in facing more bills and court action, or the threat of being wound up.

The Shrimpers settled their original £2.1million debt at the 11th hour in November, thanks to a loan by Sainsbury’s to Roots Hall Ltd, one of Mr Martin’s companies.

The supermarket giant is hoping to develop a new store at Roots Hall when Blues move to a new stadium at Fossetts Farm.

But on Christmas Eve, HMRC issued another petition for an unpaid debt of £205,000.

Mr Martin claimed the club overpaid by £200,000 when the £2.1million debt was settled.

He said this is why the latest bill has not been settled. He added HMRC was informed this was going to happen.

Mr Martin has now threatened to seek an injunction to the latest High Court petition from the tax man.

He said: “HMRC’s relationship with the football industry is not, in some quarters, a marriage made in heaven. HMRC appears to be sending out winding-up petitions against football clubs like confetti.

“The club may, bizarrely, now need to apply to the court for an injunction against HMRC.”

In a statement, the club said: “Following the recent payment of £2.1m, the club has been unable to agree whether the sum paid to HMRC is correct.

“The club offered to meet with HMRC to try and resolve the differences.

“This was at first rejected by HMRC, but the club’s finance director now hopes to meet with the case officer next week.”

The statement adds the club hope to resolve the problem without the need to take legal action.