Banbury United boss Kevin Brock has sent a good luck message to scoring sensation Norman Sylla after he decided to move to Dr Martens Premier League outfit Havant and Waterlooville.

Last season the Frenchman hit 42goals, including 32 in the league, as Banbury United finished eighth, their highest position in 13 years.

Brock said Sylla, who joined the Dr Martens Eastern Division side last year after being released by Oxford United, had phoned him to say he had received a very good offer from the south-coast club who are managed by ex-Birmingham City and Republic of Ireland defender Liam Daish.

"It's a tremendous blow to us, but it hasn't really come as a surprise. We knew this might happen," said Brock.

"There's no hard feelings and I wish him all the best. He's a nice lad.

"I hope it goes well for him, because he did a great job at Banbury. He settled in very well and the supporters loved him.

"He was living in the town which helped us and him. I understand that he is going to move down to Havant.

"On thing is for certain, he will be remembered."

The loss of Sylla leaves Banbury desperately short of firepower, particularly as Matty Gooderick, who missed the whole of last season after suffering an horrific double leg fracture in a pre-season friendly at Abingdon United, is unlikely to be ready in time for the start of the season.

Winger Jody McKay has also decided to play for Hook Norton, from where he rejoined Banbury last season.

Brock added: "If we can get Gooderick back playing for us by the turn of the year, that would be a real bonus."

Meanwhile, Banbury's annual meeting will take place in the clubhouse on July 23 (7.30pm).