ANDY Allardice blamed Dudley Town's hammering at the hands of Bilston Town last Saturday on the amount of approaches made for his players last week.

The Robins suffered a 7-1 defeat at the Dell as they remained within touching distance of the West Midlands Premier League dropzone.

The result came at the end of a difficult week that saw seven approaches come in for a host of Dudley's key men, including Shawn Devonport, Ethan Barnett and Leon Naylor.

Allardice said: "We didn't play well at all and I think it was clear that the players have been distracted.

"I have had offers coming in from left, right and centre.

"It's difficult because it distracts the players that are wanted by other clubs as well as their team-mates.

"We just need to wait and see what happens but it's important we bounce back quickly and react in the right manner this weekend."

Town will take on Ellesmere Rangers at home this Saturday (3pm kick-off).

Allardice has boosted his options ahead of the clash by bringing winger Steve Jones back to the club following an absence due to work commitments.