LEE Duckworth admits the departure of Kyle Riley is a blow, but plans to tell potential replacements they too can earn a move to a higher level from Winsford United.

Blues’ captain has agreed a transfer to Glossop North End, a club he left for Barton Stadium three years ago.

He was leading scorer last season too, netting 23 times.

“It reinforces a message I’ve been sending for a while,” said Duckworth.

“At Winsford, we can develop a player and make them better.

“Look at Harry Brazel too – he went to Stockport after impressing while playing against them.

“We’ll also tell them when we feel a potential move is a good fit for them. That applies in Kyle’s case.

“It’s a blow to lose any player capable of getting you 20 goals, but we’ve a leader to replace as well.”

Riley, 23, has made more than 100 appearances for Winsford.

He hopes that experience will help him to make an impact in the Northern Premier League.

“I fell back in love with football again thanks to Winsford,” he said.

“And I couldn’t be prouder of being captain at such a wonderful club.”

Duckworth told the Guardian he already has a replacement lined up.

He revealed too that he has a list of 40 names expected for a first pre-season training session next week.

“There aren’t enough letters in the alphabet to list all the plans you need to have!” he quipped.

“It’s a numbers game, but I’m optimistic we can bring in a player that’s done as well for us as Kyle.

“We’ve a young core to the squad, and as a management team we’d already identified adding experience to that is a priority this summer.

“That hasn’t changed because we’ve lost a player this week.

“If anything, it highlights that we’re right to feel that’s something that needs addressing.”

Winsford announced last month that defender Will Foster had agreed terms on a deal for next season.

They plan to confirm other new recruits later.