Southport striker Marcus Carver has joined Hartlepool United for an undisclosed fee.
Carver officially made 28 appearances for Southport, with a number of additional appearances annulled because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Marcus had scored 17 goals already this season, including the “goal of the century” at Haig Avenue, a bicycle kick against Chorley in the FA Cup.
Manager Liam Watson said: “We have had a few enquiries about Marcus and this deal is good for the club and the player. I have always maintained that I would never stand in the way of any player at Southport Football Club who has the opportunity to progress and wish him well at Hartlepool”
On a message posted to his Twitter account, Marcus Carver said: “I would like to thank every single person involved with Southport FC for the past 18 months. Thank you to the fans and volunteers for your never ending support and believing in me. Thank you to the management, staff and players for pushing me to be the best I could be. Thank you to Liam Watson for having the confidence in me and giving me a chance.
“I have had an amazing time, from breaking a club record to countless black eyes and head injuries. This team has an amazing bunch of lads and I wish nothing but the best for them and Southport FC in the future.
“I will truly miss Haig Avenue.”
Hartlepool manager Graeme Lee said: ““I am delighted to get Marcus in with us. He has the attitude, character and work ethic we are looking for. He has already scored 17 goals this season and hopefully more to come in blue and white.”
“I want to thank Southport and Liam Watson for the support they have shown us during our bid to bring Marcus to the club.”