Players and coaching staff at troubled Rotherham have been told it is a "necessity" for them to take wage deferrals in order to save the club.

The League Two outfit have slipped into administration for the second time in 18 months, incurring a 10-point deduction that looks set to end their play-off hopes.

Backroom staff, including head of youth development Mick Priest and groundsman Bill Corby, were made redundant last week as part of the cost-cutting exercises being implemented by administrator Jeremy Bleazard.

Asking the players and coaching staff to go without pay for the foreseeable future is the next strategy.

In a statement released by the club, Bleazard said: "Unfortunately the redundancies and wage deferrals are a necessity to enable the company to trade.

"Cashflows have been prepared until the end of the season. Even with the redundancies and wage deferrals, it remains extremely tight until a purchaser can be found or somebody is willing to fund trading."

The club statement continued: "Following the appointment of Jeremy Bleazard of XL Business Solutions as administrator to the club on 18 March 2008, a number of staff were made redundant whilst the remaining staff were asked to take wage deferrals.

"The players and coaching staff have also been asked to take similar deferrals. These are yet to be agreed with the PFA, however it is believed that these will be accepted."

Irish property developer Anthony McMullen reportedly expressed an interest in investing in the club over the weekend, but Bleazard insists that no formal talks are taking place.

"A number of people have expressed interest in purchasing the club, but formal negotiations have not been entered into with any party at this time," said Bleazard.

"It is understood that there are other interested parties who are yet to contact the administrator.

"I have held positive meetings with members of the Supporters Trust and Rotherham Council who have both offered assistance in saving the club.

"I urge fans and businesses to get behind the club and support it during these difficult and uncertain times. I am hopeful this great club can be saved."

Team Talk / Eurosport