BURNLEY’S joint chairmen said they are “surprised and disappointed” at Eddie Howe’s decision to leave the Clarets for a return to Bournemouth, but have accepted his reasoning.

The 34-year-old has parted company with the club he quit the Cherries for in January 2011 for ‘personal and family reasons’ in order to return to the south coast.

Chairmen John Banaszkiewicz and Mike Garlick have issued a statement after terms with Bournemouth were agreed following several rounds of talks.

"We are surprised and disappointed that Eddie is leaving a great club like Burnley so soon in the season,” they said.

“However, we understand that his decision reflects his personal circumstances rather than any matters at Burnley Football Club, be that supporters, the players or the board.

“We wish Eddie well in his future career and thank him for the hard work he has done at Burnley over the past 20 months.

“Since we were elected co-chairmen, we have embarked on a wide-ranging programme of development at Burnley Football Club and this will continue.

“In some ways this change creates new opportunities that we can take on board as we look to improve upon our league position and create a strong platform for the future.

“We remain 100% committed and ambitious for the club.

“Eddie’s sudden departure will not deter us from our plans and we are confident that the team will rally round while we seek his replacement – a search that has already begun.”