Prolific Matlock striker leaves for National League North opportunity

Margetts re-joined the Gladiators last summer and went on to score 33 goals in 30 games this season for the club – that figure recently adjusted officially to 28 in 28 after the records from matches against Marske United were expunged.

He has opted to link up with a King's Lynn side battling to avoid relegation from the National League North. They currently occupy the final relegation spot and are three points from safety.

A move to Linnets will also give the 30-year-old the opportunity to return to full-time football, and Matlock boss Martin Carruthers admits he was offered a package with which the club couldn’t compete.

He said: “I’m absolutely gutted to be losing the services of Margs. He’s had an unbelievable season for us with his goals and contribution to the side. He’ll be irreplaceable.

“He’s turned down a lot of interest this season and had been loyal, but this opportunity was too good to reject.

"To go back full-time doing something he loves was something he and his family couldn’t refuse, and we certainly couldn’t compete with that offer.

“It’s a sad day for everyone involved with Matlock Town FC, but we have to respect his wishes and we can’t stand in any player’s way when opportunities like this come along. We wish him well and I hope he goes and smashes it.

“That’s football and the level we’re working at, and we have to be positive and dust ourselves down."

Photo credit: Matlock Town