Town could lose players to Premiership clubs even outside the transfer window due to their status as a 'club in distress'.

Clubs which are in this position are deemed to be special cases by the Nationwide League and any players transferred out of the cash-strapped teams will be given the go-ahead to be able to play for their new clubs even if they join outside the transfer window.

Town manager Joe Royle says he has been aware of the position for a while: "Unfortunately we may lose key players at this vital time.

"I became aware of the position last week and some Premiership clubs may fancy coming in with a bid.

"It is a cross I have to bear and goes with administration. We are five points away from the play-offs and are still going all out for a top six place.

"In an ideal world I would like to keep all my squad, but it looks as though it could be out of my hands."

As the season draws to a close, Premiership clubs wishing to strengthen their position in the league may see this as a lifeline and target those in financial trouble.

Town and Bradford City could be targeted, with the likes of Darren Ambrose and Darren Bent regularly watched by scouts. It could be only a matter of time before a serious bid is lodged.

Other players that may be subject of bids include Matt Holland, Thomas Gaardsøe, Marcus Bent and Hermann Hreidarsson, although the latter will be out for much of the rest of the season.

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