The Town skipper, who like the supporters is still trying to come to terms with last week's traumatic events and is waiting for further news on the club's fate, said he and his colleagues had been deeply appreciative of the backing they received in the closing weeks of the campaign.

He said the fans played a vital part in the team's improved form at the tail end of the season which appeared to have clinched Blue Square Premier safety, only for their efforts to be apparently overtaken by events off the field.

"The players and the fans all pulled together in the last few games and the support we got was absolutely superb," said Kearney.

"The supporters backed us all the way and we really appreciated it and they played a big part in us avoiding relegation.

"We were all celebrating as the fans were after the Stevenage game but after last week we are all in limbo and while it is not a good situation I feel for all the supporters who have backed Town for years because this situation must be awful for them."

Kearney said that like the rest of the contracted players he had heard the comments of the administrators and realised the seriousness of the situation, but was still waiting for further news and any confirmation of what the fate of the club would be.

"I haven't heard anything further so it's difficult to say anything more," said the 26-year-old former Bradford City and Everton player.

"There are six of us still under contract I've spoken to most of the other lads but we're all in the same position and they are just waiting for further news just like me."

Manager Chris Wilder is in a similar position to the remaining contracted players in awaiting confirmation of his fate, but at the time of going to press they were still awaiting a statement from administrators Begbies Traynor, who yesterday said they were temporarily delaying an announcement as various discussions over the club continued.