A WINDING-UP petition issued to Dean Holdsworth’s company, Sports Shield BWFC, has been adjourned at the request of the claimant, BluMarble.

A 28-day break was granted in winder's court this morning to allow for further negotiation between Wanderers co-owner Holdsworth and the finance company to settle a loan debt worth £5million, plus interest.

Whites chairman Ken Anderson is understood to have reached an agreement in principle with BluMarble.

But should it fall through, SSBWFC – which owns a significant number of shares in Wanderers’ holding company, Burnden Leisure - will face liquidation. This may carry a level of risk to the football club itself.

Sanctions, including a points deduction, could theoretically be imposed – which has led to BluMarble to request the adjournment, and for the parties involved to seek talks with the Football League later this month.

Wanderers are expected to make a statement in due course.