It is with a mixture of disappointment and delight that Stalybridge Celtic confirms that South Shields have made a bid for Darius Osei that has been accepted.

On the one hand, we're obviously disappointed to let Darius leave as he's been prolific for the club since his return. On the other hand, firstly we couldn't stand in his way as he has openly stated that he wants full time football as he strives to return to the Football League, and secondly Darius could have walked, for free, at the end of April.

"First and foremost, I am a Celtic fan and so I am sad to see him go. But this is good business for the short to medium term future of the club and I mustn't be too sentimental about it" said Chairman Rob Gorski. "We would have lost him anyway and this is also giving Darius the opportunity to fulfil his dream of being a full time professional.

"We will back Simon in trying to find another striker but we couldn't say no to much needed money when in 12 weeks time he would have been a free agent".

Manager Simon Haworth added "Darius has been a model professional since he's joined us.

"I thank him for performing to the level that he did. I wish him all the best and I expect to see him in the Football League in a couple of years".

The details of the deal will, as always, remain confidential.