MANAGER Carl Heeley has refused to dwell on the “frustration” of losing Dan Nti, insisting Worcester City can find a replacement.

The winger has made the next step in his career after signing his first professional contract with York City.

Heeley admitted he was sorry to see the 23-year-old, who made 130 starts, scoring 44 goals and making 26 assists during his three-year stint at City, depart.

But, having gained £4,000 and a 15 per cent sell on clause from the move, the City boss said it was now important to find someone to fill his shoes “Dan has moved up a division, he has gone full-time, so good luck to him,” he said.

“There is no point talking about how key he was for us because he has moved on now and we need to get someone else in.

“We have had hundreds of players over the years and I am sure there will be hundreds more, so we need to keep plodding along, get the best we can and try do the same again.”

Heeley said he was always aware Nti wanted to become a professional footballer and backed him to kick on at York.

“Dan was quite open and honest with us,” he said.

“After he completed his first season, there were numbers of things in the pipeline, but nothing came to fruition, so he re-signed for us. It is frustrating to lose players, but it happens.”