Accrington Stanley 'won't let people down' (From This Is Lancashire)

Accrington Stanley 'won't let people down'

10:27am Friday 15th March 2013 in Sport By Chris Flanagan, Sports reporter

ACCRINGTON Stanley chairman Peter Marsden has insisted the board will not let down those who worked so hard to get the club back in the Football League – appealing for the town to rally behind the club in their battle against relegation.

Stanley sit bottom of the League Two table ahead of tomorrow’s crucial home game against fellow strugglers Barnet, managed by former Holland star Edgar Davids, and the Reds’ relegation worries have been exacerbated by wage delays.

The Reds were promoted from the Conference in 2006, having risen through the leagues after their infamous resignation from the Football League in 1962 because of financial problems.

The club say wages will be paid in full before tomorrow’s game, with former chairman Ilyas Khan agreeing to provide some assistance.

And Marsden, who took the helm last May, insists a plan is now in place to prevent any further cashflow problems this season. Directors may provide money if required.

Relegation back to non-league, however, could provide further financial challenges. The club would lose their Football League income, receiving only around half of that for one year as a parachute payment.

They would also miss out on Premier League solidarity payments, which are set to increase significantly next season.

Marsden said: “This month for the first time under my chairmanship, players’ wages were not paid on time.

“This is deeply embarrassing to myself and the board.

“The board are putting in place initiatives to ensure that we will be able to meet players’ wages from now until the end of the season.

“It is vital that we stay in the league. Many people have worked long and hard to get us back to where we belong, as a Football League club.

“We can’t and won’t fail them now.”

Stanley’s crowds have dropped to an average of 1,593 this season and Marsden said: “Please would the town get behind Leam and the boys.

“We realise that everyone is feeling the pinch, but let’s fill the ground.”