BOSS Scott Parker insisted the decision to loan out midfielder Gavin Kilkenny for the upcoming campaign was “best for his development”.

Republic of Ireland under-21 international Kilkenny earlier this month joined Stoke City on a season-long deal, as well as extending his contract by another year at Vitality Stadium.

The talented Irishman was a key figure in Cherries' team during the early part of last season, contributing heavily to the club's record 15-game unbeaten start to a league season.

However, of his 18 appearances in 2021-22, his outing on the final day against Millwall was the first time Kilkenny had featured in the Championship since December.

Kilkenny has also seen competition rise in the midfield area this summer, with Cherries bringing in Joe Rothwell on a free transfer.

“We just felt it was best for Gav,” Parker told the club website, when asked about the loan decision.

“He was pivotal for us at the start of the season and then probably didn’t play as much at the back end due to player form and players coming back.

“We felt it would be best for his development and for us as a football club for him to go on loan and experience another season, playing games and playing in a different environment.

“I think he will be a better player for that rather than staying with us and maybe being on the fringes of things.”