STEVE King will seek a replacement for Karl Murray after the on-loan midfielder returned to Bromley.

The former Woking regular starred five times in his second temporary stay at Northwich, but did not impress enough to earn an extension.

“We had a mixed bag from him to be fair,” said King.

“I thought he did better in some matches than he did in others, but I’m hoping to borrow somebody else next week to cover for Joel [Byrom] and Matty [Crowell] in the centre of the pitch.”

His need is urgent.

Byrom has only recently returned from a lengthy injury lay off, while Crowell is just one caution away from a two-match suspension.

Chris Flynn has returned to Stafford Rangers, leaving King short of options in the centre of the pitch.

Versatile Jonny Allan is one alternative, but the former Lewes boss may want a specialist to cover the role.