Danny White was playing in defence for Ashton United against Altrincham FC in March 2005 when his opponent, Marcus Hallows, suffered an open fracture of his shin after his challenge

Mr Hallows, formerly of Bolton Wanderers reserves, is now an Elvis Presley impersonator. He brought a £100,000 lawsuit for loss of earnings against Mr White and Ashton United.

If the case – next February – is won by Mr Hallows then it could have serious ramifications for non-league football teams.

The future of Ashton United could be in doubt.

Buxton chairman Tony Tomlinson said: "Cases like this, if there was a result going against a football club, could bring that football club to its knees. It is a very serious development."

Ashton United have defended Danny White saying: "Danny White is a real gentleman. He's a hard player but an honest one and we're backing him all the way."

Danny joined Buxton as a teenager in 1999 and in three seasons played more than 100 games for the club. He returned to The Silverlands in 2006/7 before leaving for Ilkeston in the summer.