AFC Telford stars have high wage demands

Of the Bucks squad that secured their National League North status on the penultimate day of last season, just two have so far been retained.

Goalkeeper James Montgomery and full-back Dwayne Samuels have committed themselves to the New Bucks Head for another campaign.

Smith and assistant Larry Chambers are still to discuss terms with members of the squad, but Smith has admitted some conversations have proved fruitless.

The boss said: "I've never known so much money in this league and the demands we have had from current players have been totally unrealistic.

"There are some big calls to make, it was the same last year (when we arrived) but I think some of the players think that we've won the lottery without me knowing.

"They need to understand they we just escaped relegation, we didn't win the league. Their demands of pay need to be realistic or they can look elsewhere."

Longest-serving player and head of youth development Sean Clancy was released alongside striker John Cofie, while seven other players have left.

Meanwhile, Telford board members are due to hold a meeting tonight to discuss the club's future following managing director Lee Carter's decision to step down.

Chairman Ian Dosser said: "We may recruit a straight replacement as managing director, or we may operate in a different way which includes Lee on the board.

"We might restructure it in a different way, but we will certainly be expanding the club board in the close season.

"In terms of any supporters' concerns, we finished last season very strongly and secured our National League North safety.

"Rob and Larry are now making very good progress in the transfer market, so there are lots of positives."

Defender Graham Hutchison, who spent time at Telford on loan from Halifax last season, has confirmed he will play for Worcester City next season.