THE Football Conference has pushed back its decision on whether or not to relegate Salisbury City.

The Conference said they would make an announcement on the club’s future at 1pm today but announced they are still holding talks with the club.

A statement on the website says: “Due to discussions regarding Salisbury City still ongoing, a statement will not be issued until the matter is finalised later today.”

After failing to meet yesterday’s 5pm deadline to pay players’ wages, the club requested a seven-day extension. This was declined.

According to a club spokesman, the outstanding £25,000 for players’ wages was paid this morning, as well £50,000 transferred to the club's client account as a bond with the Conference.

However, City released a statement earlier this afternoon that the Conference is contemplating relegating them.

They have also issued a stinging criticism of joint owner Otail Touzar, who they claim has not worked for the benefit of the club.

A statement on Whites’ club website says: “Salisbury City FC are facing expulsion from the Conference on Tuesday after the league’s board decided to consider relegating them today, despite meeting certain financial demands placed on them.

“Today, £75,000 was transferred into the club solicitors’ client account to meet unpaid debts. The Conference board have also been given assurances that in the next seven days, the funds to meet all outstanding club debts will be paid.”

However the club understands that because of a legal issue in relationship to ownership of the club, the Conference board have decided to throw Salisbury City FC out of the league on Tuesday.

“Following legal advice, Salisbury City FC will now consider taking an injunction out on the Conference or taking the case to an FA independent appeal board. It is disappointing that the Conference has failed to give the club a seven-day extension to clear up their financial irregularities and as a result of their imminent action it leaves Salisbury City FC with no choice but to take legal steps to safeguard their future.”

City encountered a double demotion from the highest level of non-league in 2010, and could be forced to return to the Southern Premier.

Mark Winter and Otail Touzar bought the club last month from William Harrison-Allan, taking on £160,000 worth of debts.

Before today, Mr Winter had already invested more than £75,000 but claimed his Moroccan business partner is yet to inject a single penny.

If Whites are relegated, Dartford will be given the chance to rejoin the league.