Accrington Stanley have confirmed the club have been charged by the Football League for fielding ineligible players in three recent fixtures.

One player involved in the league's investigation is thought to be Preston youth team striker Chris McGrail, who played twice for Stanley while on work experience at the club.

The 17-year-old appeared as a substitute in Accrington's 3-2 win over Mansfield on 16 January and in the 1-1 draw with Wycombe on 20 January.

The identity of another ineligible player in a third game is not yet known, but the club could face a severe penalty from the league.

AFC Wimbledon suffered an 18-point deduction after fielding an ineligible player this season and Bury were kicked out of the FA Cup for the same reason.

A statement on the Accrington's official website read: "Issues surrounding the registration of players is a complex matter.

"The club considers the charges to be technical issues and will submit a detailed defence to the Disciplinary Commission hearing early next month.

"Accrington Stanley Football Club is taking expert advice in this matter and can assure supporters that they will take every available option open to them to ensure that League status is maintained.

"The club will make no further comment at the present time."