CAPTAIN Josh Gowling has said Harriers’ players will continue to give their all despite the club’s money problems.

The player/coach revealed at last week’s fans forum the squad had vowed to battle on after being told they would not be paid in August.

The club’s issues have since eased after benefactors Kath and Ernie Lane committed to helping to pay the monthly wage bill, which is thought to be £68,000.

“We sat down and discussed things but at the end of the day we’re professionals,” said Gowling.

“Obviously there is stress and worry because the lads have got families to support but you’ve got to keep going and that’s what we’ve been trying to do.

“Not knowing if you’re going to be paid from one month to the next is not nice. I have a mortgage and when you’re not being paid it is a stressful time but you’ve got to be professional and keep going.”

Assistant manager Mark Creighton believes the cash flow concerns have had an effect on the players.

The club made a fine start to the Vanarama Conference and were unbeaten in seven games.

But they have been inconsistent over the last two months, and Creighton is sure the issue over wages has had a detrimental impact.

He said: “The players were very, very disappointed and you could see some of their enthusiasm was affected.

“When we started the season and particularly in the first seven games of the season, there was a burning desire in the players’ stomachs.

“Gary, Josh and myself were asking the lads to run through brick walls for us and put their bodies on the line, and then if you don’t pay them their wages for the month it is hard to keep asking to do that on a regular basis.

“Players aren’t stupid, they can smell trouble around the corner and that’s where we find ourselves.

“There have been times when Gary and I have had to wait for our wages so the lads could be paid, not that that is a massive issue. Gary and myself are in a position to do that.”

Manager Gary Whild also said he couldn’t see the players going on strike over money issues.

Meanwhile, the management team confirmed last year’s player of the season, Callum Gittings, has been struggling with a host of small injuries, which have hit his form.