TIME is ticking for Salisbury to find a new goalkeeper before the season starts, following the shock departure of Charlie Searle.

The 20-year-old’s exit comes just weeks after he returned to the Whites on a season-long loan from parent club Havant and Waterlooville.

But last week Ryman League Club Hawks – who are a league above Salisbury – recalled Whites’ first-choice shot-stopper and offered him a two-year deal.

It is understood the Westleigh Park outfit didn’t want Searle to feature for the Whites in the FA Cup and Trophy and consequently get cup tied.

“I wanted the best of both worlds but I had to make a decision,” Searle told JournalSport.

“I’ve been with Havant for the past four years and it has always been my ambition to play for them.

“I understand I’m not going there to be number one keeper but I’ve got to be patient. The move is certainly not for financial reasons.”

“I’ve had a great time at Salisbury and one of the highlights of my career was playing in the FA Vase semi-final against Hereford.

“I’ll miss playing for them and the fans have been brilliant. I don’t want any hard feelings.”

Searle joined Whites at the start of this year where he played a crucial role in the club’s FA Vase and league success, making 23 appearances.

He also played a part in Whites’ pre-season programme, featuring against Football League clubs Bristol Rovers, Portsmouth and Yeovil Town.

His absence leaves Whites boss Steve Claridge with just one gloveman in Nathan Ball, with their Evo-Stick Southern League Division One South and West campaign starting on Saturday at home to Evesham United (3pm).

“I’m disappointed because the likelihood is he will be second choice for Havant whereas he would have played every week for us,” Claridge said.

“It’s frustrating because Charlie is a good lad who I thought was looking to progress. He’s not the first player we have lost out on to Havant this season for financial reasons and supporters might wonder why.”

“We’ll look for a new keeper and we’ll find one. We’ve got irons in the fire.”

Salisbury were to play Cirencester Town on Saturday but the game was called off due to illness in the visitors’ camp. They ended their pre-season at Baffins Milton Rovers last night.

n SUPPORTERS can quiz the board at a fans’ forum tonight. The board of directors and CEO Amanda Newbery will be present at the Ray Mac from 7.30pm.