Bolton manager worries players could leave club over missed pay

Manager Neil Lennon faces a nightmare at Bolton, as his players could leave the club if it fails to pay them the wages they are owed for the month of November, and beyond.

The Championship side is searching for a new owner after Eddie Davies admitted he couldn't bankroll the team any longer. With debts around £185 million, and the coffers essentially dried up, the players have gone about their jobs without pay.

Related: Bolton confirms players still owed wages for November

Another month without wages could allow them to walk away from the financial mess.

"They can give the club two weeks’ notice. That is their right," Lennon said. "Obviously at this time of year it’s a huge concern if they’re not getting paid. We need something done very, very quickly."

Scottish club Rangers went through a similar situation in 2012. The historic side plummeted to the fourth division of Scottish football, and saw the core of its team ripped apart. Lennon saw Rangers' demise up close while he was managing the club's long-time rival, Celtic.

"That scenario is a realistic possibility, and that would be another devastating blow," Lennon said. "They are well within their rights, obviously. No one has come forward to suggest that just yet but time is of the essence. It’s a really difficult time of year as well for everyone, including players."

Authorities from British Revenue hit the club with a winding-up petition on Dec. 10 over unpaid taxes, adding more outstanding digits to the bill.

In a bid to attract a new owner, Davies has said he's willing to write off all outstanding debt. Wanderers have been in discussions with potential buyers, but none have approached him with anything more than interest.

Bolton, which has just one win in 20 league matches this season, currently sits at the bottom of the Championship standings.