The 23-year-old has taken radical action, citing breach of contract after Derby failed to pay any players' wages for August.

Manager John Gregory also went unpaid in August and is reported to have paid for a �2,000 overnight hotel stay for the squad out of his own pocket.

But the club confirmed on Thursday night that all their players would be paid in full on Friday morning.

"We are grateful for the bank's support in paying the players' wages while discussions continue on the reorganisation of the club," said a Derby spokesman.

"All of the players will be paid first thing on Friday morning and we will continue to work closely with the bank."

Higginbotham could now stay with the club after he had indicated that he would withdraw his two-week notice if wages were paid within that time.

And PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor has pleaded with Derby's players to be tolerant.

"It is with regret that I feel forced into serving my notice to Derby County Football Club for breach of contract," Higginbotham said in a statement on the club's official website.

"I believe that it is in my interest, those of the club and our supporters that I must take this action to force some kind of conclusion to the uncertainty hanging over everyone at the club.

"I did not take this decision lightly and I have spoken with various people both inside and outside the club and they fully support my action.

"I will continue to give my usual 100% for Derby County and I am fully focused on the Burnley game this weekend, which is vital to the players and the fans.

"I look forward to seeing the club back in a healthier state."

Taylor understood Higginbotham's stance, but warned: "Players want paying, but we're hoping they (Derby's players) will show a bit more patience.

"Bradford players waited three months to get paid.

"We're going to see Derby on Friday and I'm led to believe that these financial problems will be solved.

"We don't want any club to be failing or going into liquidation."

The Division One club, which is �30m in debt, is considering two rival takeover offers, with John Kirkland and one-time vice-chairman Peter Gadsby up against Stuart Webb and local businessman Charles Clowes.

The club reported on its official website: "Negotiations affecting the future of Derby are continuing. Clearly these negotiations need to be of a confidential nature at this stage.

"We thank fans for your patience and continued terrific support and can assure you that all departments at the club continue to function normally in the lead-up to the game against Burnley."