RAY Ingleby is poised to exploit the growing worry that Peter Shackleton is unable to deliver his takeover goods.

Clarets directors deny that a strict deadline for Shackleton's money to arrive expired last Friday.

But there is still no sign of the promised £1 million up front loan as Shackleton's credibility decreases daily.

Yet again the Bank Holiday weekend has been used as an excuse for extra delay as lawyers are now said to be wrangling over details of the £12 million Shackleton package.

And the New York-based tycoon Ingleby is waiting in the wings for a sign of encouragement.

He said today: "I have not lost interest but I am not going to creep to these people for obvious reasons.

"My hands are tied unless the board decide they are going to deal with the Ingleby 'devil'!

"I am just waiting to see if this Shackleton money has arrived."

But the uncertainty of the club's long-term future, the managerial turmoil and undecided contract talks are all combining to reduce Burnley as an attractive investment opportunity.

Ingleby strongly denied reports that one of his companies is planning a cash investment in Dewsbury Rugby League Club.

He said: "There is no truth in that. I am only interested in Burnley Football Club."

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