Darlington captain Craig Liddle has told the clubs fans he wants to stay at the club, despite the defender being told he will have to take a reported 70% pay cut.

Chairman George Reynolds and Liddle are understood to be in deadlock after talks about a new contract broke down, however manager Tommy Taylor said Liddle would still see out the remaining two years on his contract.

”I would like to stay at the club, but I'll have to see how things turn out during the summer.” said Liddle, who is clearly keeping his options open.

The big defender also admitted he had heard of interest from other clubs, saying "I've heard rumours that clubs are interested in me, but nothing specific at all. I don't know anything about a move."

Third Division and North-East rivals Hartlepool are said to be favourites to land the former Boro man, if they can finance a deal.