Gary Hackett: Stourbridge must keep progressing despite losing top scorer Luke Benbow

LUKE BENBOW has all the attributes to cut it in the National League – according to the manager he’s just left behind.

Stourbridge boss Gary Hackett has seen his star striker – the Evo-Stik League’s top scorer last season – depart for Solihull Moors.

The Glassboys will no doubt miss his instincts in front of goal but Hackett is confident the club will still put in a challenge for promotion without him.

He’s been busy in the transfer market after losing a number of players so far this summer – including winger Chris Lait who has also moved to Solihull.

Midfielder Aaron Forde has joined from Rushall Olympic, joining Gloucester City utility player Bobby Moseley and attacking midfielder Danny O’Callaghan – a fans’ favourite himself at Sutton Coldfield Town.

Hackett is hopeful of another push for promotion at Amblecote and says 32-goal Benbow is replaceable.

He told The NLP: “It’s football, it happens – especially at our level clubs above us in the pecking order will always be looking. It’s the way of the world.

“Luke’s been great for us and I think he will score goals in the National League. He’s got a lot to his game and while we’re sad to see him go, we must keep progressing.”