Big Al to the rescue at Darlington?

Apr 5 2009 by Lynsey Elliott, Sunday Sun

NEW Newcastle boss Alan Shearer could help out cash-strapped Darlington by agreeing to a pre-season game at The Arena.

Even though Shearer plans to step down from his temporary post in the summer he could use his considerable influence to help out his old pal Neil Maddison.

The duo became big friends in their playing days at Southampton – ironically another club in severe financial difficulty – and Darlington Centre of Excellence manager Maddison could persuade his long-standing friend to agree to a game.

Darlington are planning for a long spell in administration, though hope for a short one by attracting a buyer before the end of the current campaign.

But adminstrators have revealed they have plans in place to carry the club into next season, if necessary still in administration.

Pre-season games are being arranged, and finances sought to keep the club afloat.

Ex-Darlington chairman George Houghton, who is helping to fund the club during administration, wants to play a role in its future, probably as part of a consortium.

He is in a strong position as he owns most of the stadium and surrounding land, though the Sunday Sun understands that at least one potential buyer, and possibly three, will consider going ahead only if Mr Houghton has no further involvement.