Cash-strapped Cheltenham Town FC have told supporters to stop moaning about the lack of fire power in the side and help them raise enough cash to sign a forward on loan.

Injuries mean the struggling League One team have only two fit strikers available, and manager John Ward has been told they cannot afford to bring in any reinforcements. But after losing six of their last seven games, and averaging one goal a game all season, chairman Paul Baker has asked fans to chip in.

Mr Baker said: "As individual directors we are able to part finance a loan signing, but we would welcome any contributions from supporters as well.

"We would be looking for a temporary signing for one or two months and I know John is actively looking at players now in the hope that we can have someone for the weekend.

"As a club we are indebted to the fantastic support we receive from the fans year after year and this is the first time in living memory, we have appealed for help in this way."

Despite winning promotion via the play-offs last season, crowds have fallen well short of the break-even figure of 4,200, leading the club short of funds.

The Robins Trust, an independent supporters' association, has already raised £3,000 for a new player and plans to organise a quiz night to help bring in extra cash.

Fans visiting their site are also directed towards a Loan Player Donation button, where they can make credit card payments to the appeal.

The club are hoping to raise up to £10,000 for the signing, and have promised all the money will be used to cover the player's wages.