CINDERFORD Town manager Paul Michael says there’s no ’direct replacement’ currently in line for departed striker Gethyn Hill.

But he has challenged Forest forwards to come and trial for the club and prove their mettle.

Hill, Town’s top goalscorer, signed for National League South outfit Weston-super-Mare for an undisclosed fee that will see Cinderford benefit further if Hill is sold on.

Weston will also travel to the Causeway for a friendly in 2017 as part of the deal.

“We were never going to stand in Gethyn’s way,” Michael explained.

“We had the approach from Weston and we wouldn’t stop players moving onto a higher standard.

“We’ll always support any player looking to move up and he has been fantastic for us. His attitude even when he knew about Weston’s approach was outstanding and he continued to give everything for us.

“We knew it was coming and we are delighted for him in more ways than not.

“There’s no direct replacement in the pipeline just yet. We’re looking into lots of things because we do need another forward player.”

Michael moved to secure the signature of centre-half Danny Clare from former club Risca United, throwing him into the line-up for Town’s 4-0 loss at Banbury United – which Michael claimed was the ’most disappointing performance’ he’s seen by his new side.

Town were a goal down after just 13 seconds and Michael expressed his frustration.

“They were a very good side but at this level you can’t commit basic errors,” he said.

“Going down after 13 seconds always gives you a mountain to climb.

“Danny played on the weekend and we are convinced that he will do well at this level.”

Fellow Risca midfielder Lewis Ellis, who has played in Sweden and the United States, was also awaiting international clearance for his move to go through.

“At the moment I’m recruiting from the Welsh League because that’s what I know and Danny has been excellent,” Michael added.

“He won the league with Monmouth Town and that’s where I’ll be looking as I get to know this standard and the local scene.

“There are always players who say ’I could have played at this level or that level’ but that’s easy to say.

“At the moment, we’ve only got Josh Nelmes from the area. I’d love to see more Forest boys come and give it a go and prove that they’re good enough to play Southern League football.”