GLENN Howes believes the highly regarded Tom Killick will not be “washing his car on a Saturday afternoon” for too long following his sacking by Poole Town.

Howes is currently manager at Dorchester Town where he played as a midfielder and has previous experience of playing under Killick at Poole.

Howes also received great support from Killick and the Dolphins’ board following his career-ending knee injury at Merthyr in 2013.

Consequently, when Killick was this week relieved of his duties by Poole after a shade more than 19 years at the helm, Howes labelled the Dolphins’ decision as “unusual”.

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And it is Killick’s sparkling record over nearly two decades of service for Poole, leading them from the 10th tier to National League South level before stabilising at Southern League height, that will attract no shortage of suitors.

Howes spoke passionately about Killick’s abilities and feels any club in Dorset would be lucky to have him on board.

“I don’t hide away from the influence that Tom’s had on me personally,” Howes told Echosport.

“That’s with my life, not just footballing terms but outside. Both Tom and Chris Reeves and certain directors at Poole Town have looked after me an awful lot.

“So, I have a great affinity towards Tom. It’s an unusual decision and he’s been the most successful proven manager in Dorset and in local non-League football.

“His record speaks for itself with the number of games he’s managed to churn out, I think it’s nearly 1,000.

“To show that type of longevity and to evolve with football, it’s just unrivalled. I don’t think that feat is going to be repeated.

“It’s just the manner Tom goes about his business. I’ve known him since I was 17 years old and played in the same teams as him.

“It’s testimony as to what sort of man Tom is. You hear certain mumblings and rumours about the playing squad but he’s staunchly loyal to his players and probably at times too sentimental.

“I feel Tom is not done with football, that’s for sure. I can see him popping up and around the local non-League scene.

“Poole Town’s loss is definitely going to be someone’s gain.”

Howes revealed he has already spoken with Killick following his departure, adding his former manager remains “raw” post-exit from the BlackGold Stadium.

Howes said: “Tom has been extremely loyal to Poole over the years. I don’t think he’ll mind me putting on record that he's had opportunities to leave.

“He’s stayed loyal to the project, Chris and the directors over there. Now people know Tom’s available, he’s not going to stay out of the game.

“I’ve had a discussion with Tom myself and he’s a little bit raw at the moment. It’s come out of the blue and it will take a little time to digest.

“I can’t see Tom being sat at home and washing his car on a Saturday afternoon for too long.”