Southend manager Gerry Lamb has revealed the dilemma behind his club's slump, but promised: "We'll return to our former glories."
The full-strength seasiders, who host traditionally-close rivals Sutton & Epsom on Saturday, have conceded 503 points in losing all 10 London League One games this season.
Lamb said: "Our fundamental flaw is our lack of organisation and the fact that we haven't got coaching to any real level.
"That problem is being dealt with now, but it's a bit catch 22. In order to persuade players to come to training in the first place, you need a coaching focus.
"A lot of clubs spend out on a coach or pay a few players. We are unwilling to go down that path because it could risk insolvency. Another solution, getting in a benefactor, isn't a long-term answer because the person can leave at any time."
However, Lamb insisted: "We will get back to our former glory at some stage. I believe we have turned the corner, but it will take some time."
He said of mid-table Sutton: "They've always been a strong side, as indeed we have in previous seasons, and our games have been tight.
"There's never been a lot between the two clubs in the past, although obviously this season, by and large, has been a huge disappointment for ourselves."
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