No easy solution to cash crisis... when someone comes in with money they are usually welcomed with open arms

  • There is no magic wand to solving cash crisis at Football League clubs
  • Bolton and Bury are facing expulsion this week if they cannot sort finances 
  • When rich backers are interested, they are usually welcomed with open arms 

It goes without saying that I'm deeply saddened by the financial crisis gripping the lower leagues at places such as Bolton and Bury.

I grew up in Chester where some of my happiest football memories were watching players like Gary 'Psycho' Bennett.

I started my own career with Crewe playing at grounds such as Bury. I know what each club means to their community. What to do about it is a much harder question.

Bury fans have been gathering outside the club's stadium all week in protest at their plight

Bury fans have been gathering outside the club's stadium all week in protest at their plight

I know the EFL have come under heavy fire for not being stringent enough with their fit and proper persons test but the reality is when a small club is up for sale they aren't usually awash with options.


When someone comes in with money they are usually welcomed with open arms. It's hard at that stage for a governing body to intervene and say 'No, they're not allowed to come in'.

There is no magic wand and asking the Premier League to fund smaller clubs is awkward if they might not like the owner who is receiving their handouts.

Crisis-club Bury have been battling all summer to avoid being expelled from Football League

Crisis-club Bury have been battling all summer to avoid being expelled from Football League

Bolton also have real financial worries and could be kicked out of the league on Tuesday

Bolton also have real financial worries and could be kicked out of the league on Tuesday

One solution would be for credible and right-minded people to step forward when a club is struggling.

The EFL wouldn't have any problems then. But those knights in shining armour have been hard to find.

I haven't got the expertise to offer an ideal solution. But I do know the massive hole left in the community if a Bolton or Bury is allowed to die. I feel deeply for the people in those towns.