Representatives of the club and the player himself denied speculation that the defender was listed following a pay wrangle.

Chairman Rod Stich said: "Peter has been listed purely for footballing reasons. There is no truth in the rumours. It is merely a situation which suits both parties - Peter wants regular first team football, which Phil couldn't promise him."

They were sentiments echoed by Billing himself.

He said: "I know I've dropped quite a way down the pecking order at Northwich. I'm 33 now and I need to be playing regularly."

He added: "I got a call from another manager a couple of weeks ago. He was under the impression I was available.

"I rang Phil and he told me he was willing to let me go because it hadn't worked out."

Billing, who arrived from Crewe and boasts Premiership team Coventry amongst his former clubs, has attracted enquiries from Stalybridge already this season. Although their interest has waned, there are sure to be a number of Conference teams monitoring the defender.

Billing remained philosophical about the situation: "It's the nature of football - it's all about opinions and obviously my style doesn't suit Phil. I try to play out of defence and maybe that didn't appeal to him.

"I need a move, but I'll miss the club. It is a good club with some very good players."

Phil Wilson said: "I have transfer listed Peter and that is all I'm prepared to say on the matter."

Wilson also confirmed the search for new players is continuing.

About this weekend's away-day at Farnboro he said: "James Collins will be back but Paul (Tait) and Eddie (Bishop) are still suspended. There are also doubts over Chris Duffy and Steve Walters, but we won't know the full extent of their injuries until we've seen them at training."

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