NEIL Young is working around the clock to deliver a ‘significant signing’ which will help Chester FC supporters get over the loss of their striking heroes.

The Blues boss has put a high-quality frontman at the top of his shopping list after Michael Wilde followed Chris Simm and Matty McNeil in leaving the club.

Young’s search for a new forward even ate into his family break to Cyprus last week.

The married father-of-two, who fielded more than 100 calls, text messages and emails while on holiday, said: “I was on the phone quite a lot, speaking with players, speaking with agents, and just getting a feel for the market and costs.

“Hopefully over the next couple of weeks we’ll be able to make a signing but it’s important, with the budget we’ve got, that we bring in the right player.

“Michael, Chris and Matty have left the football club but Marc Williams is still here and we’ve signed Nathan Jarman.

“Ideally we’d like to add two more to them but at the moment it’s looking like it’s only going to be one.

“Forwards aren’t the easiest to come by but I would like to make a significant signing in that area who will be key to what we want to do – and that’s why we’ve let the lads go who have gone.”

Fans’ favourite Wilde quit Chester after rejecting a new contract on reduced terms to return to full-time football with his former club Welsh Premier League champions, The New Saints.

The 28-year-old will be best remembered for his first season at the Exacta Stadium.

He fired in 37 goals – including five hat-tricks – in the never-to-be-forgotten 2010-11 campaign as the reborn Blues won the first of two straight titles.

Young said: “Michael’s contribution to the club has been excellent, both on and off the football pitch.

“He had a remarkable first season, when his goal return was very good but then he had to play a lesser part last season due to a number of injuries and the form of the other strikers, in particular Matty McNeil.

“Over the last two years Michael has done really well for the football club and I think the football club has done really well for him too.

“We wish him well but players have to look after themselves.

“Players and managers come and go and the only thing constant is the football club and I will continue in what I believe are the best interests of Chester FC.”

Wilde, who departs the club having scored 46 goals in 73 appearances, said: “I really wish everyone at the club the best and am sure Chester will go on and get another promotion in the bag next season and get into the Conference.”