AFC TOTTON have confirmed that the Evo-Stik Southern League Premier Division club are in financial difficulty.

It follows suggestions that there was talk of a players' strike before Easter Monday's thrilling 3-2 win over Gosport Borough because the squad have not been paid for several weeks.

Chairman Paul Wallace would not comment on how much the players were owed, but confirmed that "squad wages have been delayed."

But Wallace also confirmed that the Stags are in talks with potential outside investors "with a view to moving the club forward."

The full statement issued by the club this morning said: "Similar to other non-league/semi-professional football clubs, AFC Totton have been struggling to hold things together financially.

"The move to the new stadium has brought with it additional cost . This, coupled with the current wage bill, is a burden that has been building for some time and was masked somewhat by last year’s FA Cup run.

"Postponement of games plus lack of major sponsorship has severely impacted on cash flow this season and highlighted an unsustainable financial impact, which has meant squad wages have been delayed.

"The players and management have been exceptionally flexible and supportive during this time, whilst all avenues were explored to resolve the issues, for which the club are extremely grateful.

"The club are now in discussions with potential outside investors, with a view to moving the club forward.

"A special general meeting of the members of the club is hereby announced for Wednesday, Apri 10, 2013 at 8.00 pm, in the Monarch Suite, Testwood Stadium.

"Following this meeting, a further press statement will be provided."