Ralph, who is still a director at the Shay, has revealed that they could go into liquidation next month unless a proposed takeover comes to fruition.

He told the Courier: "I'm hoping the deal can be done but as time drags on I can't pretend I'm optimistic.

"If anyone else came in with an offer I would have no alternative but to embrace them on behalf of the club."

Ralph added: "I am sorry to be the bearer of bad tidings but I could not face the fans if the club had gone under and I'd said nothing."