MARC Richards says that the negative atmosphere at Edgar Street is having an affect on his players.

Speaking after their 2-2 draw with Nuneaton Borough, he said: “I feel they (the players) are playing with their shackles on a little bit.

“I don’t know why, it is difficult the atmosphere sometimes, probably directed at myself as well, can be a bit negative which maybe affects the players decision making at times.

“I don’t think that helps to be honest. If we are all in it together. That sort of environment of somebody making the right decision at the right time can be effected .”

When asked if the atmosphere hindered some of the younger players in the side?

Richards added: “Maybe it does.

“I’ve got no problem if they want to direct their anger and negativity towards me I’ll take that. But when it starts affects my players and when it starts affecting their decision making, it’s not helping.

“If it’s not helping it’s going to have a detrimental affect on our performances, unfortunately the lads are sometimes happier playing away than they are at home.

“We pass the ball 10 yards back and there’s jeers and boos. Sometimes you need to do that to get the ball into pockets or forwards, so I don’t think it helps.

“When it starts affecting the players it’s not idea.”