CASH-STRAPPED Worcester City will not stand in the way of players who wish to leave the Blue and Whites after admitting the club was on course to make a ‘significant loss’ this season.
Club directors have revealed the club has incurred losses during their four years in exile from Worcester and claimed the situation would have been worse had it not been for recent cup runs.
In a statement, the board of directors confirmed the search for a new manager continued but revealed an appointment would be made against a review of the club’s viability.
During City’s four seasons away from Worcester, the directors revealed the club had incurred the significant costs expected for a club playing in the second tier of non-league football.
However, the reduced ability to bring in as much money as they would if games were played in Worcester has led to the Blue and Whites losing money.
The losses had been less than expected thanks to the club’s historic cup runs which included games at Coventry City and Sheffield United and cash from BT Sport who televised their second round replay with Scunthorpe United.
Board members stressed the review of the club’s financial situation began before former manager Carl Heeley resigned and was endorsed by him.
Club bosses have stressed the need for a return to the city ‘at the earliest possible’ opportunity and have admitted a temporary home could be an option.
A ‘rationalisation’ of the current operating costs including the playing budget will also be carried out in a bid to reduce the significant losses to be made this season.
A break even budget will be brought forward for the coming seasons to ensure the club protects the remaining funds it has available meaning players will be allowed to follow Lee Hughes out of the club.
Any appointment of a new manager will be someone who the board believes is best placed to take the club forward in the long term, in light of the above matters, according to the statement.
“The board is aware of speculation both in the media and amongst supporters as to the future direction of the Football Club.
“The board will not comment on speculation, nor will it comment on any ongoing discussions in advance of those discussions being completed.
“It will however reassure shareholders and supporters that any future action it decides to take will be with the sole objective of ensuring that Worcester City Football Club continues to be viable in the future,” the statement added.
