Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe has explained allowing Brett Pitman to move to Ipswich Town.

The striker joined Ipswich as part of the deal which took Tyrone Mings to Dean Court.

Howe told the Daily Echo: “I don't have to tell people what I think of Brett. He has been magnificent for me personally and for this football club. He has been a great servant.

“His Bournemouth career has sort of mirrored my managerial career and to lose someone who has the club so close to their heart was an incredibly difficult decision for him and us.

“Brett had a year left on his contract and I couldn't make him any promises regarding playing time next season.

“I really left the decision to him as to what he chose to do with the next step of his career. He wanted the security of a longer contract which we couldn't offer him so he decided to join Ipswich.

“I want to thank him for everything he has done for me and for this football club. He will be fondly remembered by everyone here and has been instrumental in our past three promotions."