Bournemouth U23 coach Carl Fletcher says the loan market is crucial for player development.

No fewer than seven members of Fletcher's squad left on temporary transfers during the window, while Harry Cornick (Luton) and Jordan Green (Yeovil) secured permanent moves.

Sam Surridge and Matt Worthington went to Yeovil, Joe Quigley joined Newport County, Ben Whitfield headed to Port Vale and Alex Dobre linked up with Bury.

Sam Matthews returned to National League Eastleigh, while Ollie Harfield joined Poole Town, with Fletcher among the crowd at Dolphins' National South clash with Hemel Hempstead last night.

Fletcher told the Daily Echo: "From our point of view, the lads are at a stage of their career where they need that next test and bit of development.

"We were really lucky to be able to so many of them to league clubs which was great.

"They get a taste of proper men's football and trying to win three points on a Saturday. They can't always get that experience when they stay with the under-21s so it is vital for them going forward.

"We are looking forward to see how they get on."