Dale promotion could cost us, says Harrop

11:19am Thursday 24th April 2008

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IAN Harrop has revealed how promotion for local rivals Rochdale and Stockport County could cost the Shakers £100,000.

Along with the loss of Wrexham, who were relegated to the Conference this week, home coffers could take a big hit if two of Gigg Lane's guaranteed big gates are lost next season.

And worse still, the Shakers director fears that the money available to Alan Knill for player recruitment in the summer could be tighter if the worst case scenario should occur and both derbies are lost.

"Through no fault of our own we could be £100,000 down in revenue next season," he explained.

"The challenge for us as a board is now to get as much revenue for the manager to use as possible to attract players who can make the club better.

"We want to do that, but circumstances sometimes take things out of your hands. With that in mind, I wish Rochdale the best of luck but I hope they don't go up."

Harrop has backed Knill to continue the club's recent good form into next season, perhaps emulating Saturday's opponents Rochdale in mounting a serious charge for promotion.

"We are determined to give the manager as much resources as we possibly can, and I think he'll do the rest," Harrop added.

"I have said to the manager, let's get past that 60-point mark this season. That's a psychological barrier.

"I can remember Rochdale finishing very strongly last season and they have kicked on.

"So with two games left, I'd like to see us finish well and enjoy the summer."