Darlington skipper Steve Foster has been controversially dropped by manager Steve Staunton following a row over a clause in his contract.
The Quakers defender, who has the option of a new deal at the Darlington Arena if he makes two more appearances, has refused to remove the clause at Staunton's request and will no longer be considered for first-team matches.
"Steve has clause in contract that if he reaches two more games he gets a new contract. That was in his contract from the end of last season, the position we're in we can't afford to be handing out new contracts," said Staunton.
"I asked him if would he take it out so he would be available for selection, but he's decided not to, that's his decision, so my hands are tied.
"Unfortunately he won't be available for selection. He's still training with us, but he won't be considered until that clause comes out."
Darlington, six points adrift at the bottom of the Football League, have won two of their eight league matches under Staunton, who replaced the sacked Colin Todd in early October.
