TOM Killick is hoping former Wales international Marcus Browning will remain with ambitious Poole Town until the end of the season.

Dolphins’ manager labelled the ex-Cherries midfielder his side’s star man after their comfortable 4-1 home midweek success over Brockenhurst.

Browning, who made more than 180 appearances for AFC Bournemouth from 2002 to 2007, linked up with the reigning Wessex League champions in November and is named in their squad for tomorrow’s trip to lowly Hayling (3pm).

When he originally secured the services of Browning, Killick said: “I’m not sure how much he wants to commit to us.

“So he’ll play a game or two, see how he feels about it and then decide whether he wants to pursue playing for us more.”

Since Bournemouth-based Browning arrived at Tatnam the cold snap has restricted Poole to just four outings.

Consequently, the 39-year-old had made only two substitute appearances before Tuesday’s clash against Brock.

Killick said: “Marcus made his first start for us in that match and looked very impressive.

“He was man-of-the-match as you would expect with a very accomplished performance.

“I’m hoping he’ll stick with us now. Clearly it’s his call, but he seems to be sort of tolerating the level we’re at, so I’m hoping he will stay, perhaps until the end of the season.

“I haven’t had that conversation with him yet, but he’s involved with us again tomorrow when we visit Hayling in the league. He’s someone who is a very good influence off the field as well as on it.

“It’s a real boost to have someone of his calibre around the club as he’s played a lot of Football League and international football.”

Poole’s title challenge has been boosted by news that ex-Saints defender Phil Warner may remain at Tatnam longer.

Signed at the same time as Browning, Warner, who had been playing semi-professionally in Australia, was only expected to stay with Dolphins until mid-January before returning Down Under.

Killick said: “Phil’s not available tomorrow, but it now looks like he’ll be around until the end of the season.”

Luckless Micky Hubbard has finally completed a three-match ban, while Kevin Gill and Lamin Dibba also return to Poole’s squad.

Dolphins: (from) Jones, M Walker, Skelton, McCormick, Preston, Browning, Richardson, Roberts, Smith, Cann, Jeffes, Sturgess, Douglas, Poore, Seabright, Hubbard, Gill, Dibba.