FOUR more Witton Albion players have extended their contracts for the 2020-21 season – but one has left to join a league rival.

Defender Josh Wardle, midfielders James Foley and Billy Smart and forward Will Jones have all agreed terms to remain at Wincham Park.

They join Josh Gregory, Scott Bakkor and Isaac Baldwin in committing to the club for next season, but Kyle Sambor has left Albion to join fellow Northern Premier League outfit Atherton Collieries.

The non-contracted youngster played 22 times for Albion last season, scoring four goals including a brace in the thrilling 3-3 draw against FC United of Manchester and a last gasp winner away at South Shields.

Northwich Guardian:

Kyle Sambor. Image: Karl Brooks Photography

In his monthly statement, chairman John Salmon said: "[Management duo] Carl Macauley and Gary Martindale have been working hard to secure the services of players for next season.

"Despite receiving an offer to stay with us, Kyle has decided that his future lies elsewhere. He leaves with our best wishes and we thank him for his service.

"At our level of football, we have very few contracted players and therefore those of a non-contract basis are free to move should they wish to do so.

"It has to be said that Carl and Gary have kept a very stable squad and they have a negligible attrition rate. Players do not generally want to leave."

Wardle skippered the side in Rob Hopley's absence last term and has been a key performer in the heart of the Albion defence since arriving at the club in the summer of 2018.

Northwich Guardian:

Josh Wardle. Image: Karl Brooks Photography

The centre-back is closing in on 100 appearances in a Witton shirt but is yet to score a goal in a competitive fixture.

Foley has been another key member of the squad in recent times.

The midfielder has made more than 100 appearances for the club since arriving in 2017, scoring 24 goals in the process.

Northwich Guardian:

James Foley. Image: Karl Brooks Photography

Smart enjoyed an impressive season in 2019-20, mixing his combative midfield play with a good goal return and making himself the heartbeat of the Albion side.

The former Marine man has played 66 times for Witton in two seasons at the club, chipping in with 11 goals.

Jones has been a focal point to the Witton team since arriving in February 2017.

Northwich Guardian:

Will Jones. Image: Karl Brooks Photography

The target man, whose hold up play is excellent and allows him to bring others into play, has scored 37 times for The Albion in 144 appearances.