Bradford seek wage deferral

The rent on Valley Parade is the key factor in the club's survival

Bradford want their players to accept a wage deferral as they continue their attempts to avoid being closed down.

The Bantams survived a 1000 BST deadline on Thursday, and it has since emerged that several parties are interested in investing in the club.

"We want discussions with all parties in order to try to attain a viable offer," said the joint administrators.

"To give the club the best chance while we investigate these proposals we've asked players to agree to a deferral."

Bradford, already in administration and reportedly £30m in debt, were awaiting a decision from their landlord Gordon Gibb on whether he would waive their £300,000 rent next year to allow them to continue as a club.

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Gibb, a former Bradford chairman whose pension fund company owns the ground, was given until 1000BST on Thursday to respond positively, but the club were granted a stay of execution in order to look into possible investment bids.

The statement continued: "As a direct result of the deadline there have been several expressions of interest - including some from new parties.

"We're eager to investigate all these new avenues in case they can provide a solution to the club's future.

My conscience is clear Former Bradford chairman Gordon Gibb Gibb defends position

"Therefore, we feel it would be inappropriate to make any decision at present about the closure of the club. While these new developments are pleasing, time is of the essence.

"We appreciate this is a worrying time for everyone connected with the club, and as soon as we have anything further to report we will let you know."

The move comes despite concerted fund-raising efforts from fans and a reported "substantial" donation from celebrated artist David Hockney, who hails from Bradford.

Losing their Premiership status in 2001 after two seasons in the top flight, combined with the collapse of the Football League's ITV Digital television deal, hit City's finances hard.

Expensive contracts with Premiership wages - such as that of striker Benito Carbone - could not be sustained following relegation.

Bradford were put into administration for the second time in two years in February.

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They failed to survive in the First Division, now The Championship, despite appointing former England captain Bryan Robson as manager last November.

If they fail to reach agreement with their landlord, Bradford could become the first English league club to fold since Maidstone United in 1992.

"The key factor is the rent for Valley Parade," said joint administrator Neil Brackenbury.

"The cash flow forecasts produced show that in order for the club to trade on a break-even basis for next season it is necessary to secure a rent-free period from the landlord."