Darlington manager Gary Bennett has been given the go-ahead by chairman George Reynolds to bring in new players - but it looks as if there's no change in the transfer fee policy.

Bennett had two meetings with the chairman in 24 hours regarding team matters, and emerged from yesterday's meeting to reveal that he can look for new players.

But Bennett will not be enquiring for players with a wad of cash in his hand. "The chairman has told me that money is available to bring players in. We've gone over our policy again, and where we want to go," he said.

"We need some experience and firepower, but I'm not going to be able to throw £200,000 or £300,000 about on players, not just in fees, but also on wages.

"I've got to be realistic. We would like the best players available, but some of them are on ridiculous money, which we can't afford.

"Instead, the chairman has told me to look for good quality players, who we can bring in within our wage structure.

"I'm looking for all sorts to strengthen the squad, not just in the forward line. I'm speaking to managers and players all the time, in fact I spoke to three managers yesterday.

"Any sort of deal would have to be viable for everybody concerned - the player, his previous club, and us.

"There is no way we're going to push the boat out and land ourselves in massive debt. But any sort of deal won't happen before Saturday, because there's a seven day rule for the FA Cup."

And it is certain that some of the current squad will be on their way either before, or at, the end of the season when their contracts expire.

"There is no way that we'll be able to offer the same sort of contracts to some players next year," Bennett said. "If somebody else is willing to pay the wages they're on here, then fair enough.

"But we won't be paying those sort of wages next season."

Public relations director Luke Raine - who last week revealed the possibility of a change in the Feethams' transfer outlook - confirmed the stance regarding the transfer fee policy.

"We still don't think that it's appropriate to change the policy," he said. "There are still players out there, from higher divisions, who we feel can do a job in the Third Division. We have already been in contact with a couple of clubs."

Reynolds also spoke with some of the players yesterday afternoon. "The meeting with them was very positive," said Raine. "Four or five of them aired their views, and everybody spoke openly."

Meanwhile, Bennett - who scored in his side's 4-3 Durham Challenge Cup win over Hebburn on Monday - received a boost yesterday with news that midfielder Paul Campbell's groin injury is not as serious as first thought, and he could be back in action by Christmas