ILKESTON Town chairman Gary Hodder is talking to two possible buyers keen in taking over the troubled club.

The Blue Square Bet North club is back in the High Court tomorrow, where it faces a winding-up order from HM Customs and Excise.

The legal action arises from £47,000 unpaid tax from two years ago, when the club was owned by the family of builder Chek Whyte.

Hodder, who took over Ilkeston in March, is optimistic over the club's future and believes they can avoid administration and a 10-point deduction from the FA.

He said: "We will go (to the High Court) with complete optimism. There is no advice being given which is contrary to that belief.

"The club is up for sale and I have been speaking to two investors. They are potential purchasers of the club."

Officials are hoping the case can be adjourned for the third time so talks can continue to protect the club's position in the division.

On Saturday, it was at home to Eastwood Town and the game was watched by 657 people, the best gate of the season so far.

Manager Kevin Wilson said the players' budget is £3,000, one of the lowest in the division. He also said the club had lost £2m in a decade.

"There will be a challenge at this football club but we will meet that challenge. With my staff, I am looking forward," said Wilson.

Club officials spoke to Dennis Strudwick, general manager of the Football Conference, who attended Saturday's match.

He said: "We endeavour to assist any club but it is not just football – the economic climate is difficult for anyone. We all love football and we have got to get through it."

ILKESTON Town's newly-formed Academy side get their first taste of competitive action tomorrow evening.

The Robins' youth team take on New Mills in the preliminary round of the FA Youth Cup at the New Manor Ground (7.45pm). Admission is £4 for adults and £2 for concessions.