LEIGH RMI boss Steve Waywell fears the cash troubles at Hilton Park could lead to an exodus of his players.

"I knew on Saturday against Dover the lads weren't up for it, and I don't blame them," admitted Waywell after club officials had asked the players to take a wage cut.

"We were all on a downer and it came as a real blow to me personally. There are a lot of big clubs out there who would give their right arm to be in the Conference and I don't want us to lose our status.

"But I know that I'll end up losing seven or eight of my players. As soon as the word has got out I expect my players to be tapped up by local sides. And I believe we are in breach of contract, so there isn't a great deal we can do."

Waywell has also had to take a wage reduction but has no intention of leaving.

"The decision has hit us pretty badly. I have to admit," he said. "A lot of the players depend on their football money as well as their wage from their day jobs - to live.

"They all have mortgages and with Christmas coming up it's a big blow. It also affects me because my wage has been cut - although I wouldn't have it any other way. I couldn't expect the players to take less money and not me - that wouldn't be right. But I'm a loyal person and I'll stay at the club as long as I can.

"There was a four-year contract on the table but I didn't sign it. But I get on with the chairman and hopefully we can bring in some funds to save the club.

"We're hoping to arrange friendly games against Bolton Wanderers and Wigan," he added.