TOM Bailey has told 1874 Northwich he will not be returning this season because the hours he works in a new job restrict his availability.

The team’s leading scorer last term, with 31 goals, is expected to join a North West Counties League rival closer to home and the office.

“It’s a blow for us, of course,” admitted co-manager Wayne Goodison.

“Tom is disappointed too; he’s a guy who is committed to his football, and he’s handled it with the professionalism we’ve come to expect from him – he’s kept us informed from the first moment this was a possibility.

“In the end, he’d potentially only be available for 70 per cent of our games.

“We have to consider the impact that would have on us.”

Bailey, 26, arrived at St Luke’s Barton Stadium last summer as a replacement for Matthew Beadle following his transfer to Colne.

Mike Brandon had retired too, but the former Glossop North End striker was unfazed and netted close to 40 per cent of his side’s goals in the Premier Division.

Goodison said: “Tom took on a lot of the burden from those two guys.

“We’d felt already that it’s important that load is spread more evenly throughout the team next season rather than rely on somebody like him as much as we did at times.”

He told the Guardian that 1874 are seeking to recruit another forward to support Sam Hind, Scott McGowan and Adam Whitlock.

Jordan Bove was a potential alternative, but he has agreed to sign for Stockport Town.

Wide man Tyler Edwards has made the same move.

Goodison added: “We’ll be looking to bring somebody in to add to the options we have.

“We’ve spoken to a couple of potential signings, and we’ll see what develops.

“There’s certainly no panic on our part; things can change quickly during pre-season when lads change their minds and sometimes their first choice doesn’t work out.

“We’ve got some ideas, and will be ready to react if an opportunity presents itself.”

1874 are due to play a first friendly on Saturday when they take on Altrincham reserves at Middlewich Leisure Centre.