BURY FC’s players have called on chairman Steve Dale to sell up in a statement released by the squad.

The players remain unpaid with manager Ryan Lowe reportedly on the verge of leaving for Plymouth just weeks after promotion to League One.

Dale, who only took over in December, has put the club up for sale in the face of mounting financial problems.

The strongly-worded message from the dressing room claims suitable offers are on the table and urges the Shakers chief to step aside before the Gigg Lane club is “brought to its knees”.

Bury are due back in the High Court over a winding-up petition on June 19, a previous hearing having been adjourned to allow for a possible takeover to be completed.

The statement in full is:

“As players we are disappointed to find ourselves in this position having had such a great season.

“We have gone from elation to complete and utter dismay.

“As it stands it looks like as players, we may have to start looking at other clubs which is something none of us want to do.

“Adding to this we have now found out one of our contracts isn’t valid moving into the next season which needs addressing as a matter of urgency.

“Unfortunately, we are now in a position where we as players haven’t been paid in 12 weeks from the club with no intention of paying what is owed or future payments to us.

“The PFA stepped in to help us with March’s wages which we are very grateful for but unfortunately this is not a long-term solution.

“Right now, we should be spending some well earned down time while we are out of season, instead we find ourselves having to consider the future.

“Everyone can see the togetherness of this squad which gives us a great start for next season.

“All we want is to come back to some stability and give the fans another great year.

“From what we understand the chairman bought the club for £1 with a good understanding of the problems it had.

“He openly says this in his first ever press interview.

“If it’s become too much, all we ask is that you step aside, move on and stop negatively impacting everyone’s livelihoods.

“We have been made aware via various sources that offers have been made to Bury FC, which would see him making money after such a short amount of time in control of the club.

“Mr chairman, we know you have no regard or consideration for us as players, our families, or our futures, but please just accept the offer and walk away from our club before you bring it to its knees.”