AFC Sudbury begin life without Luke Callander tonight when they host Met Police in a crunch game towards the bottom of the Ryman Premier.

Sudbury were narrowly defeated at Enfield Town on Saturday and have accepted an offer for Callander – who played his final game for the club at the weekend – from National League South side Bishop’s Stortford.

“We received an offer from Bishop’s Stortford on Friday, and having been in discussions with Cally, agreed that it was a good time to move on,” said manager, Jamie Godbold.

“This season so far has been a frustrating one through injury and being unable to cement a regular starting position, and he feels he is at the stage of his career where he wants to play every game.

“Luke was influential in Sudbury being promoted last season and we will always be grateful for his contribution.

“He goes with our best wishes and hope he continues to score goals at a higher level.”

Assistant manager Andy Reynolds added: “We wish Luke all the best with Stortford and would like to thank him for his contribution at the club since his arrival.

“We want all players to move the club forward by the time they leave and it’s safe to say Luke has done this.

“Talks to find a replacement are at an advanced stage and we hope to be able to announce something soon.”

This season, Callander has scored eight times in 28 games for Sudbury, who find themselves in 16th position in the table, but just three points clear of the final relegation spot, which is occupied by Met Police.

He scored 40 goals in total, in 87 appearances.

Meanwhile, loan midfielder Dylan Williams has agreed to extend his loan stay with the club, having scored four goals in 17 games since moving from League Two Cambridge United, on a temporary basis, in October.

In Ryman North tonight, Bury Town go to AFC Hornchurch, while Brightlingsea Regent are on the road at Bowers & Pitsea.

Bury, in sixth position, are one of four teams on 50 points, two points behind third-placed Regent and a further seven behind second-top Thurrock.

Bury lost 3-1 at Cheshunt on Saturday while Regent won 4-1 at Romford.