Prescot Cables FC, who compete in the Northern Premier League West, are working with Knowsley Council to find a long-term solution to problems with the stand at Valerie Park.

The structure has been found to be nearing the end of its usable life following an inspection supported by the council and the club's board.

Knowsley Council leader Cllr Graham Morgan said the assessment indicated the stand had around two years of life remaining, but admitted the authority could not currently afford to replace it.

Speaking on BBC Radio Merseyside, he said: “Unfortunately, the stand above the club and the changing rooms is now becoming very tired and it's coming to the end of its life.

“So, what we've done as a council, with the support of the board, we've done an assessment – an inspection – and it said it's coming to the end of its life by about two years now, but it'll cost about £2 million to replace that stand.”

Cllr Morgan said the authority was continuing to work with the club to explore ways of improving spectator facilities, despite the financial difficulties facing the council.

He said: “Unfortunately, at the moment, the council hasn't got that kind of money, but we're working very closely with the board to see what can be done to improve the facilities for spectators at the club.”

The ground was secured by Knowsley Council in 2018, when the authority bought it for £300,000 from its previous private owners and granted the club a 99-year lease.

Valerie Park has been home to Prescot Cables for 116 years, making the question of how to fund the necessary work a significant issue for the club and the local community.