TEENAGE striker Jamie Thomas has returned to Burnley after his loan spell at Ayr United was cut short.

The 19-year-old made only four starts after signing on loan for the Scottish Championship side on a six-month loan deal in July.

Wales Under-21 international Thomas found himself playing second fiddle to Alan Forrest and Craig McGuffie at Somerset Park and United boss Ian McCall believes it was best for the player to return to Turf Moor.

“Jamie looks a really good player but his chances were limited because Forrest has progressed while McGuffie has come through much quicker than anyone expected and is now a first team player," he said.

"It meant that game time for Jamie would most likely be limited so we both agreed it would be best for him to go back to Burnley.

"I would like to thank him for his efforts while here, he’s a great boy and will have a good future in the game ahead of him."