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Gareth Seddon

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Vics losing Seddon battle

Northwich Victoria are on the verge of losing out on their top transfer target, striker Gareth Seddon, due to a row with his owners Hyde United.

The Blue Square South club were eager to land the England 'C' international and were willing to break the bank to secure his services.

However, the Tigers are unhappy with the Vics' attitude towards the deal.

United's director of football Tony Beard told the Northwich Guardian: "Northwich have broken their promise to us and the player.

"It's totally unacceptable - we struck a deal at the end of May when they agreed in writing to pay an undisclosed fee yet now they say they do not have the money."

But Northwich owner Jim Rushe insists this is not the case. "We've been honest with Hyde from the outset and all the way through the negotiations," he said.

"The economic climate has changed considerably over the past six months since we first expressed an interest in the player and, as a result, we simply can't afford to make the full payment up front."

Rushe revealed he offered the Tigers a down payment for the hitman that would account for more than half of the five-figure fee agreed on by both parties, while the difference would be paid in instalments.

He added: "I fully understand the frustration of Hyde but we had to restructure the deal.

"I spoke to Tony on Saturday and apologised to him for what has happened but the facts remain the same."

However, Beard has decided to lodge a complaint to the FA and admitted that Seddon is poised to stay with the Blue Square North outfit.

"Gareth was flattered by Vics' offer," added Beard.

"Now he is completely disillusioned."