THE future of Chorley's two most long serving players is uncertain after they both missed the opening match of the season on Saturday.

Neither former skipper Ian Leather nor midfielder Danny Mills played in the game and, although no official announcement has been made, it seems likely they will leave Chorley.

It is believed they are unhappy with the lower wages and much reduced playing budget on offer this season.

Their likely departure will leave the Magpies with just two of last season's regulars, David Eatock and Jamie Vermiglio, remaining at the club.

Assistant manager Mickey Graham, who is in charge of team matters during the two-week absence of John Hughes, says they are "three-quarters of the way there" in their team building plans.

Graham said: "We are still on the lookout for new players to strengthen the squad but it's a long-term thing and we certainly intend to get there. We still have a lot to do but we are three-quarters of the way there in our team building.

"I was pleased with the players' efforts at Spalding and it was wonderful to have the backing of the fans who made the long journey there.

"We were the better side for spells, especially before Spalding scored the only goal of the match," he said before last night's home game against Colwyn Bay.

"Our fans are great and the lads want to give them plenty to cheer about. The players really appreciated the backing from our supporters."

Former Clitheroe defender Jason Jones was the Magpies skipper at Spalding and he was likely to lead the team again against Colwyn Bay on Tuesday night.

Chorley face the re-formed AFC Telford United at Victory Park on Saturday and travel to meet Woodley Sports, near Stockport, on Monday (3pm kick-off).

Organisers of the Magpies Trust's free open launch event at the Victory Park Social Club, at 7.30pm on Tuesday, August 31, are hoping for a good turnout.

Guest speakers will include representatives of Supporters Direct, a government-backed institution that offers help and advice to supporters' trusts, and members of the supporters' trusts of Warrington Wolves RLFC and Bury FC.