A MEMBER of Second Division Bury's administration team believes the current television crisis will see clubs go to the wall.

Experts are forecasting dire consequences for football if the the dispute between the Football League and ITV Digital is not resolved soon.

They fear the four-division structure of the national game may have to be dismantled if the TV company does not fulfill its obligation to the League clubs.

Matthew Dunham, joint administrator at Second Division Shakers, said doubts over the OnDigital deal could also prove a handicap as he looks for a buyer for the cash-strapped Shakers.

"In the short term it should not make too much difference," he said. "We have fantastic support at Bury, and it should see us through to the end of the season.

"In the long term it makes my job of selling the club more difficult. We are looking for someone with slightly deeper pockets. The same people will be interested.

"For the clubs where television and advertising revenue is a significant part of their income it will be extremely difficult.

"It may lead to re-negotiating players' contracts. Creditors may be asked to take reduced payments or there will be a raft of insolvencies.

"We could see clubs go to the wall before we see the re-negotiation of player contracts."

Leading agent Phil Smith said: "It is potentially catastrophic for smaller clubs. For those preaching part-time football it will be fodder.

"With the competition as it is some will suffer and others will profit.

"Some of the contracts of Division One players we are negotiating are far below the levels the public believe. I think everyone is aware of how catastrophic this could be."

Portsmouth chief executive Peter Storrie said: "I think it's a very serious time for league football.

"Most First Division clubs are going to be short of £3million and Division Two and Three clubs £600,000 and £400,000 respectively."