Return pump set up

[Palmer]

When I bought my setup there was a mag pump included which was being used for the return in the sump and it has a sponge filter on it.

I notice that alot of what I would classify as sump crud ends up in the sponge and the sponge is squeezing inwards on its sides towards the intake. I am concerned that this is not only becoming a trap for stuff I do not want but also restricting flow. Is there another way to jig the return pump without the sponge and prevent critters from being sucked up into the display? I am not really looking to build an overflow in the sump for the return just wondering what other options there are.

Palmer