PETER Barratt, chairman of Marsden BS Lancashire League side Accrington, says he is very doubtful about securing Peter Sleep as the club professional this season.

The Australian all-rounder is contracted to the Lancashire Seconds as player-coach in the summer.

Mr Barratt approached Old Trafford some time ago and is awaiting written notice on whether they are prepared to allow the player take up a dual role.

But with the first Lancashire League fixtures scheduled for mid-April, he admits that the delay is forcing him already to look elsewhere. "It doesn't look like the Sleep option is going to happen and as time goes on the situation is getting more concerning," he said.

"We're waiting for a letter from Lancashire County for official confirmation one way or the other.

"But in the meantime I've got to look to other options and that is what I am now doing."

Though he would not be drawn on naming any alternatives, Mr Barratt did not rule out the name of South African all-rounder Richard Snell.

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