Burke – a big success since signing in the summer – is set to join a club at a higher level up the pyramid and so, despite the efforts of the Blues to retain the teenager’s services, heads back to Chester ahead of an expected move next week.

That will leave a gap to plug alongside player-manager Priestley, whose goal last weekend sealed a 1-0 victory over Trafford to lift the Blues back into the play-off zone as one of the form teams of the NPL West Division.

Priestley’s men are still unbeaten away from home and will be out to enhance that record against a Rambsottom side hoping to bounce back from last Saturday’s 8-0 beating at Warrington Rylands.

The Rams boast a decent home record but the Blues will travel to the Harry Williams Riverside Stadium full of confidence after piecing together a six-match unbeaten run.

“We are up to fourth and we can’t complain,” said Priestley, whose side has collected four wins during their current prolific run.

“Everything is pushing in the right way so I’m happy.

“Harrison has been terrific for us and we will miss him. We did everything we could to try and keep him and we wish him all the best.

“We will crack on with a chance for someone else. Everybody is giving everything.”

As well Priestley, goalkeeper Chris Thompson, midfielders Richie Baker and Danny Wilkins and skipper Sefton Gonzales will also be facing a former club in Rambsottom.

And following a busy few days of transfer activity, the Blues will be boosted by ‘new’ face in their squad following the return to Shawbridge of striker Max Cane.

Cane top-scored for the Blues’ Under-21s last season and signs for the senior squad after spell with Nelson.

His arrival off-sets the departure of Zack Clarke, who has also been recalled from his loan spell by parent club Chester FC.

Ramsbottom have also strengthened their squad ahead of Saturday’s game, with well-travelled winger Aaron Fleming arriving from Barnoldswick Town.