Bully in middle of Rangers cash crisis

Steve Bull is hoping his Stafford Rangers players will agree to play on through Saturday's home clash with Vauxhall Motors before dealing with the effects of the club's cash crisis.

It is understood that both contracted and non-contract players are facing major cuts in earnings as the Blue Square North club deals with a crisis threatening to put the club into administration.

The squad will meet to discuss the wage cuts at training tonight after the club decided to act following a serious drop in revenue caused by falling gates, and a decrease in sponsorship.

Players are believed to be furious at the prospect of being hit in the pocket at the cuts. They have been allowed the chance to leave if they want to pursue better offers. But manager Bull is hoping to persuade them to continue playing at Marston Road – at least until after the weekend.

In the meantime, the club have issued a statement explaining the situation.

It said: "Due to the current serious financial situation, we are unable to continue the present levels of expenditure. We have to take our responsibilities seriously no matter how difficult or unpopular certain decisions are.

"The club wishes to retain all players registered but any who wish to seek employment at other clubs can do so."