JOHN Sands has left Canvey Island by mutual consent after his contract was cancelled last night.

The 11-goal striker has been carrying a double hernia injury since the start of the season, although that hasn't stopped Sands leading the Gulls scoring charts this term.

But, after scoring 24 times in 47 matches since joining from Bury Town in 2013, he has agreed to cancel his contract after a conversation with manager Danny Heale.

The departure of Sands, one of the club's highest earners, will free up the budget and Heale has said he is already looking to add one, or possibly two, forwards in the coming days.

Heale told the club website: "Sandsy is a huge talent and has done a fantastic job for us in the past year as his goal tally suggests.

"He's been struggling with injuries this season and requires a double hernia operation which will put him out of action for a couple of months. Unfortunately we're going to struggle to pay a player of John's ability for two months and bring in replacements as well, and with that in mind John and I spoke and agreed that now is the right time for him to move on.

"I'd like to thank him on behalf of everyone at Canvey Island FC for his time with us and wish him the very best of luck for the future and with his operation. Where ever he moves to next, nobody is going to want to face a fully fit John Sands!"