CHESTER CITY received a setback last night when the Football League refused to extend the loan spell of midfield player Ricky Ravenhill from Doncaster Rovers.

City are over the salary-capping threshold, that only allows clubs to spend 60% of turnover on wages. The League said no to Ravenhill's extension, consequently the player has returned to Belle Vue.

Any club that exceeds the 60% ruling automatically has a transfer embargo placed upon them, and that is the situation that City currently find themselves in.

Chairman Stephen Vaughan said last night: "We have a meeting with the Football League on Thursday but the reality is until we move players out of the club, we cannot register any others."

Chester had agreed to take Ravenhill on a permanent basis, after agreeing a five-figure transfer fee with Doncaster, but now that transaction appears to be in jeopardy.

"We basically have less than 48 hours before the transfer window closes, and we are working hard to try and make room in the squad, in order to bring players in," said Vaughan.

It is understood that midfielder Jermaine McSporran, defender Graham Allen and striker Michael Branch are the players who City are willing to release.

Chester are next in action on Friday evening, when Swindon Town, who currently boast a 100% record, visit the Deva Stadium.