TRANMERE Rovers' chief executive has written a blueprint for the club's future following their relegation to League Two.

In a letter to supporters, Jeremy Butler said constant changes in line-up had damaged the squad's chances of winning games.

He also criticised the strategy that had seen 15 loan signings made this season, promising to reduce the number of loans.

A 2-1 defeat by Bradford City at Prenton Park on Saturday brought relegation heartbreak for fans and players.

Now, in a letter to supporters on the club’s website, Mr Butler writes: "You can be proud of the way you turned out in great numbers for the Bradford game and gave the players your backing, and we want to see you return next season.

"But we need to make sure we provide you with a decent team to cheer. One you are proud of.

"We are acutely aware the squad this year has been unbalanced and over-reliant on players moving towards the end of their careers.

"The experienced players have given heart and soul for this club but it is wrong to expect them to play every game of a gruelling League One season.

"That has meant we have been forced to plug holes by bringing in loan signings to strengthen areas where we were weak or through the need to replace injured players.

"The constant changing of players undoubtedly damaged our chances of gaining wins as the results over the past 18 months have highlighted.

"Last season we brought 11 loan players to the club. This season we have seen 15 loanees come through the door.

"That is down to Tranmere Rovers following the wrong recruitment strategy."

Mr Butler said the club’s football operations director Mick Horton has spent the past few weeks working to ensure we are never in this situation again.

He continued: "As we build the squad, we will be aware of the number of players we need that can cover certain positions so we can work within our tight budgets.

"We should never be overstocked in one area and short of cover in another again.

"Now this work has been done we are focusing on the players we believe match our criteria.

"We are building up a database of not just one target but four or five that fit the bill.

"Budget restrictions may mean we are unable to afford our first choice but we now have a definitive list of the options. We will not need to rush in a gamble signing on deadline day anymore.

"The number of loan signings will be limited and they will be at the club for longer than just one month."

He concluded: "We intend to have a playing ethos that runs from the first team right down to our kids.

"Everyone at this club must learn to play with one philosophy. That way we can produce kids ready to step into the first team.

"More will become evident as time goes on. Big efforts are being made to improve Tranmere Rovers Football Club for you.

"We know this season has been a poor one and we are doing our best to make sure we put a smile on your face next season."