Marshall was Matlock’s top goalscorer in the now-cancelled 2019/20 season and in all he has found the net 24 times.

The 30-year-old joined Matlock from National League North side Alfreton Town at the end of the 2017/18 season.

He began his career with Blackburn Rovers and has further League experience with Rotherham United, Bury and Morecambe.

Spells on loan at then-non-League clubs Grimsby Town and, Lincoln City followed, before he joined Boston United, also having a loan spell at Coalville Town.

He joined Alfreton in 2017 making 8 appearances, also going out on loan to Hyde United scoring twice in 4 games.

Gladiators boss Paul Phillips admitted he wanted to keep Marshall but he could understand the Nottingham-based player’s move to Basford, telling Matlock press officer Ian Richardson: “I didn’t want it to happen as Marshy was a big part of my plans moving forward, he hasn’t been one bit of trouble and he’s great both on and off the field although I feel he could add a few more goals to his game.

“But Basford’s local for him and it’s no secret with the implications of the Coronavirus pandemic that the club needs funds. I think we’ve got a decent deal. I’ve thanked him for all he’s done for the club and told him there’ll always be something here at Matlock for him should circumstances change.”

At least Phillips now has plenty of time to find a replacement. “I’m confident I can get players in that fit the bill in terms of goals for the right price”.

Ian Richardson