Rochester United sign striker Luke Burdon after Jack Nelson moves to Whitstable Town

Rochester United have moved quickly to replace prolific striker Jack Nelson after the 15-goal front-man opted to test himself at a higher level.

Nelson has joined Whitstable Town, the Southern Counties East Premier Division title-favourites winning the race to lure the striker away from The Spartans.

Nelson’s 15 league goals have helped Michael Betts’ team make a stunning start to their season in SCEFL Division 1 - topping the table with a perfect 10 wins from 10 games.

Betts has brought in former Ashford, Lydd and Larkfield striker Luke Burdon and feels the new man is more than capable of filling the void following Nelson’s exit.

He said: “Jack started the season flying but the offer he had was too good to turn down and we have had to seek an alternative.

“We’ve brought in another proven goalscorer at this level and I think he’ll be massive for us going forward. Luke’s a great lad and we’re looking forward to having him on board.

“I’ve always admired him, his work-rate and determination is second to none. He’ll run through walls for you and he is what we need.

“We have Mack [Reilly] who is still here and Luke Adams, who is playing in a deeper role, and he has goals about him too.”

Betts brought Nelson to the club after previously working with him at Larkfield, and knew keeping the goalscorer at Rede Court Road was going to be difficult as the goals flowed. Whitstable were one of nine clubs attempting to sign the forward.

“He has all the potential in the world and I wish him all the best,” said the Rochester boss.

“Whitstable have big plans, they are stronger this year than last, there are so many incentives and I knew it would be hard for Jack to turn them down.

“Jamie Coyle and Matt Longhurst are brilliant at their