WITH competitive football below step two of non-league suspended, Hereford have been 'inundated' by phone calls from agents keen to get their players back into action.

Hereford manager Josh Gowling said it might be an opportunity that the Bulls can 'exploit' to add quality to his side.

"The lower leagues, the one below ours there is some great players in that league," said Gowling.

"It's unfortunate for the lads as that's their income and their livelihood and they want to play as it's their passion.

"It's unfortunate that level has been curtailed. To be honest we've been inundated with phone calls from agents.

"We've got to look at that and may delve into that. We need additions in the team and financially we're not in a position where we can just go and pick the best.

"It might be a scenario we can go and exploit and bring some lads in from a lower level a bit cheaper than what we would get compared to lads above.

"We will definitely be looking at that."

Clubs in the National League North are currently awaiting news on what financial support will be available for the remainder of the season.

The Sport England package which enabled them to start the season ran out in December.

"I don't think it can be loans as the clubs have already been hit hard enough," added Gowling.

"With no revenue how are we going to pay it back? When we come back next season, clubs work from year to year, we are going to be in deficit next season and how are we going to recoup that.

"It's going to be very difficult. For me it has got to be a grant.

"They said they would help us financially for football to continue.

"If you look at the money we were paid last time it was very disproportionate.

"They should look at changing.

"It should be a grant not a loan and we shouldn't have to pay the money back.

"That's how it is. Companies are putting people on furlough now and not paying the money back.

"We're here to entertain and we're very fortunate. People have to understand that we're also putting ourselves at risk while playing and the lads are willing to do that as they want to entertain fans and keep clubs going."