MARK Beesley says the decision to let Jordan Buckley leave Warrington Town was the best one for all involved.

Now, the hunt is on to replace him as Town prepare for a visit from National League North leaders Tamworth on Saturday.

It was confirmed on Tuesday that Buckley had left Yellows after nearly four years at Cantilever Park to rejoin former club FC United of Manchester, who have paid an undisclosed fee for his services.

It brings an injury-ravaged spell at the club to an end for the striker, who netted 35 goals in 89 appearances including a late winner against Rushall Olympic earlier this month.

However, his first start of the season the following week against Blyth Spartans in the FA Trophy saw him limp off with another injury after just 35 minutes.

“He’s had a difficult period over the past couple of years in that he’s had a lot of injuries,” Beesley said.

“We couldn’t get him on the pitch as much as we wanted to which is a shame, but I think the deal is good for all parties.

“The transfer fee helps the club out off the pitch and for me, I’ve got to try and replace him. He hasn’t been around that much, so we’ve got to try and get somebody in who is a bit fitter.

“For Jordan, he probably needs a refresh and to go and get himself super-fit by playing games.

“We couldn’t guarantee that here, so it’s probably a good deal all round.”

Buckley’s departure leaves captain Josh Amis as the club’s only recognised senior centre-forward – something Beesley is keen to change as soon as possible.

And as well as Buckley’s unorthodox style being difficult to replace, the Town boss is looking in a position in which every club is keen to strengthen but he is hopeful of good news.

“You can’t really replace a fit Jordan Buckley, but getting somebody in is something we’re working on in the background. We have been working on it because this hasn’t come about overnight,” he said.

“Hopefully something will happen over the next few days, but trying to get a forward in is a difficult market as everybody is after them.

“We’re in the market now, so we’ll see what’s around.”

As well as looking for fresh blood to add to his squad, Beesley is preparing his side for another busy week, with a Tuesday night trip to Hereford following immediately after Saturday’s date with the leaders at Cantilever Park.

It looks set to be a case of “one in, one out” in defence, with Peter Clarke set to miss out with a shoulder injury sustained during the 1-0 loss at Scunthorpe United at the weekend but Andre Wisdom is likely to return from a hamstring injury.

Experienced midfielder Jay Harris is also working his way back into contention from a long-term groin issue after completing 45 minutes during Tuesday’s 1-0 win at Ashville in the Cheshire Senior Cup.

Saturday’s visitors are a point clear at the summit and Beesley says facing them is a challenge his side should relish.

“They’re top for a reason,” he said.

“They’re on the crest of a wave – they’re keeping Scunthorpe off the top of the league so they’re clearly doing something right.

“They’ve got some excellent players, they’re very physical and we’ve got to expect a tough game.

“It’s a good challenge for us – having the team top of the league come to our place is something to look forward to.”