Tranmere chief executive explains Aaron Cresswell windfall

Cresswell scored six times in 80 games for Rovers after making his debut aged 18.

Tranmere Rovers chief executive Jeremy Butler says they will receive a "drip-feed" of money from Ipswich Town's sale of Aaron Cresswell to West Ham United.

The 23-year-old full-back left Prenton Park for Portman Road in 2011, and the deal included a 20% sell-on clause.

Cresswell joined the Hammers for a reported £3.75m fee on 3 July.

"The way the transfer is structured means we don't get one lump sum, it's drip fed over a number of years, which is a real boost," said Butler.

"Some of that money's been factored into our cash-flow to avoid building up debt, but some will go to strengthening the squad."

Tranmere were relegated last term after 13 seasons in the third tier.

in April, and appointed rookie manager Rob Edwards eight weeks later.

Edwards has since brought in defenders Marcus Holness and Michael Ihiekwe, midfielder Matt Gill, plus strikers Eliot Richards and Kayode Odejayi.

"The Cresswell transfer is great news as it shows we're capable of producing Premier League players," he told BBC Radio Merseyside.

"It's something our academy can aim for.

"There's a great mood at the club. Rob's impressed with how the squad is getting on, and we're hopeful of a new signing this week."

Meanwhile, Rovers goalkeeper Owain Fon-Williams has been linked with an exit since the club was relegated.

The Welshman, 27, has made 140 appearances on Merseyside since joining from Rochdale three years ago.

"We're going to have a conversation with Owain soon to find out his thoughts," Butler explained.

"But at the moment he's under contract, and he's training well."