Following manager Scott Stainsby's decision to walk away from the club after guiding them to the Premier Division title and Hereward Cup success last season, up to 10 players are expected to quit the league for good.

Unlike last summer when the bulk of Stainsby's old Jubilee North End side switched allegiance to Racing, this time they may be gone for good.

Stainsby said: "I have decided to have a year out because doing it all on my own has become far too much work.

"That means there will be no more Racing next season and I think a lot of our players will decide to call it a day now.

"There is no-one to come through and take the whole thing over and while last year a lot of them came with me to Racing when Jubilee folded that will not happen this time.

"Players like Sam Kingston, Jamie Graham and Chris Brown have been with me for about eight or nine years and I cannot see them carrying on, that goes for most of the rest too.

"One or two of the guys might go and play for Lord Westwood but that's it.

"Without a doubt that will have an effect on the quality of players in this league if these guys walk away as they are a very talented group.

"It is not ideal as the league doesn't really want to be losing any teams at this stage but there is no alternative."

And according to Stainsby that could open the door for Netherton to claim their first ever top flight title.

Roland Dean's side were pipped to the post by Racing on the last day of the season but it could soon be their time to shine.

"Of all the teams in the league it was Netherton who most impressed me and pushed us all the way and I think they will finally do it next season, said Stainsby.

"They are a very well organised club and I think they deserve to become champions which, without us in the way, must be a real target for them next season.

"Lord Westwood could also mount a challenge and I think it will be between those two for the title next season.

"For me I plan to enjoy my time out and will be back the season after, either in Sunday morning football or on Saturdays which is looking the most likely option."