POOLE Town boss Tom Killick admitted Luke Burbidge's departure to Wimborne Town had been sanctioned in order to avoid uncertainty over the winger's future.

Burbidge, who was midway through a second month on loan at the Southern League West side, has sealed a permanent move to Cuthbury.

Wimborne initially asked to extend the loan but eventually both parties agreed the former Cherries youngster would depart permanently.

Killick, who is battling to save Poole from National South relegation, told the club website: "I felt I couldn’t allow the situation to remain uncertain any longer.

"We need clarity in terms of whether Luke is our player or not as with a small squad we have to plan ahead and utilise our resources in the best possible way.

"Not knowing if Luke was to return or not was making that difficult. By our standards Luke is a well-paid player and we need to utilise every penny we have to try to improve our league position."

Burbidge made 227 appearances for Dolphins after joining from Hamworthy United, proving a key cog in the club's meteoric rise up the non-league ladder.

Killick added: "It is fair to say Luke’s initial decision to leave when we were enduring such a difficult time was difficult for me to accept.

"However, Luke has to make decisions he feels are in his own best interests and I understand that.

"He has been an exceptional player for me and I have great affection for him. He has been central to the success we have had over recent seasons.

"I would like to thank Luke for all his efforts and everything he has helped us achieve.

"He and his family will always be welcome at Poole and I wish him the best of luck in his future career and life generally."