Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe says it was difficult selling Shaun MacDonald to Wigan Athletic.

MacDonald ended his five-year stay with Cherries when he completed a permanent move to the Championship new boys at the weekend.

Howe told the Daily Echo: “Macca moved with a heavy heart from our perspective.

“He has been an incredible professional behind the scenes for a number of years.

“Not only is he an outstanding player but he is an outstanding person as well.

“We felt we needed to help him in his pursuit of regular first-team football.

“I think it is a really good move for both him and Wigan and he goes with our best wishes."