Killick hopes Poole's relationship with Cherries can continue

A host of Cherries players have turned out in recent seasons for the Dolphins who have dropped back into the Southern League following two years in National South.

Striker Sam Surridge, who has just joined Oldham on loan, enjoyed a fruitful stay at the Black Gold Stadium in 2016-17, netting eight times as Poole finished fifth.

And the likes of Joe Quigley, Josh O’Hanlon and Sam Matthews – albeit briefly due to injury – featured in their Southern League title-winning campaign the previous season.

Poole continue their pre-season friendly schedule by entertaining a Cherries XI at the Black Gold Stadium tomorrow (Wednesday, 7.45pm kick off).

Killick, asked by the Daily Echo whether he felt it would be more difficult to loan Cherries players, replied: “Yes, undoubtedly.

“Their players, even the young ones, are going to be in demand at higher levels and Bournemouth’s duty, as you would expect, is to their players and not to loaning clubs.

“Our relegation probably hasn’t helped but we are still hopeful coming to us would benefit players who are very early in their professional careers and perhaps give them an introduction to men’s football with a view to going to an enhanced level later.

“It happened with Sam Surridge. I know we were in National South when we had him but they pitched him in with us and he went on from there. I am still hopeful our relationship can continue to work in that way.”

Poole have locked horns in pre-season regularly with Cherries down the years and Killick said he appreciated their continuing support.

“We know how much in demand they are at all levels so it is brilliant to have a fixture against them and hopefully we will get good numbers in to watch,” said Killick.

“From our point of view, we are desperate for revenue during pre-season and if we can have a good game and bring in some revenue it would benefit us greatly.”