Mark Clyde issues warning to Bridgnorth Town

Clyde reckons the Crown Meadow outfit face relegation from the Midland Alliance after they were placed into administration by their members on Monday night.

The former Wolves and Northern Ireland defender guided Bridgnorth to a highest-ever finish last season, seventh, and has nurtured youthful talent during his two years at the helm.

But he said: "Things need to be sorted, as the players and myself will have a free rein to go elsewhere. Pre-season training will be starting again soon and some lads will want to get fixed up.

"As far as the players and staff are concerned, we did our best and we can hold our heads high. I have never had a single penny since I came here, but we have done well to build a good team."

An accumulation of historic debts at the 67-year-old Shropshire club triggered the move, despite the setting up of an advisory committee to run affairs more prudently.

Bridgnorth's debts are rumoured to be between £70,000 and £80,000, with a figure of around £50,000 owed to the Her Majesty's Revenue & Customs.

Clyde said: "It didn't shock me as I was aware the financial situation was quite dire. It's a bit disappointing when you consider we were doing well on the pitch."

A local business consortium, who expressed interest in a take-over earlier this year, are understood to be monitoring the situation.

But it will be up to the administrators, who could be in the club by next week.

Clyde said: "Hopefully, some leniency can be taken on the club and they can start afresh with the help of the Shropshire Football Association.

"It's a good club with good facilities and some very good people have been involved with it over the years."

Eric Eagles, who served as Bridgnorth chairman between 2004 and 2010, said: "Its very hurtful what has happened, considering all the work people like Zoe Griffiths have done over the years.

"I would like to think Mark will stay, as he's done a good job. It's the overheads from a bygone era which have caused the problems."