CHERRIES boss Eddie Howe conceded Harry Cornick had become “a victim of the club’s success” – before handing the departing winger a glowing reference.

Poole-born Cornick yesterday completed a permanent move to ambitious League Two outfit Luton Town, with the Daily Echo having revealed news of their interest earlier this week.

He penned a two-year deal, with the option for a third, and signed for an undisclosed fee – believed to have been in the region of £50,000.

The deal is also understood to include provision for a sizeable sell-on and substantial appearance-related knock-ons.

Cornick joined Cherries on a full-time basis in the summer 2013 after boss Howe had read about his exploits with Wessex League Christchurch in the Daily Echo.

He had previously signed an 18-month deal with Cherries but completed the 2012-13 season at Priory while he finished his A-levels in biology, psychology and physical education.

The former Poole Grammar School pupil, whose father Neil is a teacher, was an unused substitute a couple of times during Cherries’ first season in the Championship.

He made his only competitive appearance for the club as a substitute in a 5-1 win at Rotherham in the third round of the FA Cup in January 2015.

His progress was stunted by Cherries’ rapid rise to the Premier League with Cornick gaining valuable Football League experience during loan spells with Yeovil, Orient and Gillingham.

In an exclusive interview with the Daily Echo, Howe said: “In terms of playing here, Harry has been a victim of the club’s success.

“Reaching the Premier League has unfortunately meant that a couple of the younger guys, who may have had opportunities, have seen their chances suddenly disappear because we are recruiting different players.

“Harry is certainly a player with real talent and ability and I think we have hopefully done everything we can to develop him to be the best player he can be at this moment in time.

“The best thing for his future career now is probably a new permanent home and we wish him all the best at Luton. I think he will do a very good job there.

“He has unbelievable athletic qualities and certainly knows where the goal is. He is a very good finisher so, with those attributes combined, he will do very well.”

Meanwhile, as predicted by the Daily Echo yesterday, Cherries midfielder Sam Matthews rejoined Eastleigh on loan and will remain with the Spitfires until January.

The 20-year-old, who also hails from Poole, was an unused substitute during their 1-0 win over National League rivals Sutton at the Silverlake last night.