BILLERICAY Town manager Craig Edwards has backed Callum Dunne’s decision to up sticks and move to Australia, although admits it is with a heavy heart that he bids the midfielder farewell.

Dunne has become a fans favourite in his two-and-a-half years at the club, with Edwards describing the energetic midfielder as key to the spine of his team just weeks ago.

The 23-year-old is moving to Australia to coach football with good friend and former Billericay team-mate Billy Lumley, and Edwards admits he fully supports his decision to go abroad.

“Callum came to see me and told me about the opportunity and although I don’t want to lose players like him, I understand why he made the decision,” said Edwards. “He has really struggled with injuries this season and it seems to be one thing after another. After a set-back recently I walked into the treatment room and I had never seen him so low.

“From a selfish point of view I don’t want to see him go but professionally it makes a lot of sense. I think it will do him the world of good in all honesty and I wish him the best of luck.

“He will have a great time out there and I have asked him to call me first when he comes back, whether that be in six months or a year. He is a top lad.”