“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.

“Kevin was involved in more games as both a player and head coach than anyone in our 120-year history and departs with his status as a club legend firmly cemented.

“Everyone at Southend United thanks Kevin, Darren and Mark for their commitment to the club and the wider community and wishes them every success in the future.”

Maher, who made 454 appearances for Southend between 1998 and 2008, told BBC Radio Essex after Sunday’s Wembley success: “I’m so proud of the players and the fans who turned out in their numbers.

“It’s the first domestic cup the club has ever won – this is up there in my career highlights for sure.

“There’s been some tough times this year and a lot of talk about me but I love winning trophies for this football team.”

In 2024 he was given the Freedom of the City of Southend in recognition of his dedication to the club during a challenging financial period.