Nathan Cartman has left Harrogate Railway and joined Darlington 1883. Photo: Caught Light Photography
Billy Miller has paid tribute to Nathan Cartman after his star striker left Harrogate Railway for Evo Stik Division One North promotion-chasers Darlington 1883 today.
Cartman has joined Darlington after the two clubs agreed an undisclosed fee.
The former Leeds United academy graduate has been a revelation for Railway for the past three seasons and he leaves them after scoring 36 goals since the start of this campaign.
He has scored three hat-tricks – including one at Class of 92 club Salford – and scored many memorable goals which has helped Railway emerge as the league’s surprise package.
Miller told Non League Yorkshire: “We’re sad to see him leave as he has been with our management team (Miller and Lee Ashforth) for five seasons.
“He’s been a fantastic servant to the club and everyone loves him at the club so we’re really pleased to see him progress.
“He’s a lovely lad and his goals speak volumes. He benefits from wide players and Darlington have that.
“Stephen Thompson is one of the best players in the league and I think it won’t be a case of if he scores, it is a case of when he scores.
“Carts going to Darlington also shows the predigree of our club. We’ve seen Josh Windass go to Accrington, Lamin Colley to Bradford Park Avenue and Jake Lawlor to Guiseley and now Carts to Darlington.
“So we have a track record of development players and helping them move to bigger clubs.”
Talks between Darlington, Harrogate and Cartman began on Monday after the North East-based club’s manager Martin Gray contacted Miller.
Miller has described his dealings with Darlington as “really professional” after terms were agreed on Tuesday night.
Cartman is expected to make his first return to Harrogate next month when the two clubs play each other in the league.
By then Harrogate should have a fully-fit squad.
Club captain Jason Mycoe and Lawrence Hunter limped off in the 0-0 draw with Warrington Town on Saturday, but even with Cartman leaving, Miller expects to be able to cope.
“We did some number-crunching last night and we don’t need to hit the panic button as we have enough people around,” he said.
“Jason Mycoe will be back the quickest and Loz will be back next week.
“If a striker fits the bill then there is an opportunity, but we have depth in the squad and we won’t be making any daft signings.”
Rail, who host Kendal Town on Saturday, also have Simon Parkes on the way back from a long-term injury.