Salisbury cutbacks will continue

Holmes' Salisbury sit 14th in the Blue Square Premier table

Salisbury City manager Nick Holmes has warned that more players could leave as the club struggles financially.

City have made Andy Sandell, Matt Tubbs and Robbie Matthews available for loan and Holmes is worried more could follow soon as they try to cut the wage bill.

"There's still certain other measures that will have to be taken. This is the start of what is happening," he told BBC Radio Wiltshire.

"If we carry on the way we're going we'll be in serious problems."

Supporters have expressed their disappointment at the decision but Holmes has backed the board's decision.

"We have to cut the wage bill, that was the unfortunate decision. The three that have gone on the list are big earners.

"Its not a thing that I certainly would have wanted to do. I don't want to get rid of my top players."

Sandell is seen as Salisbury's prize asset at the moment, with Blue Square Premier rivals and also League Two outfits interested in him. His departure would be a major blow to Salisbury.

Fans' favourite Matt Tubbs has struggled to find the net this term but has scored more than 100 goals in his Salisbury career.

Fellow forward Matthews was also made available for loan and has joined Havant & Waterlooville for a month.

The manager said the players had taken the news well.

"They're footballers at the end of the day so they get paid to play football wherever they are. A footballer's life is short and they have to get what they can."

Tubbs is suspended this weekend and, if Sandell is signed by another side before the game at Mansfield, Holmes will only have Charlie Griffin and Liam Feeney left as recognised strikers.