“I CAN’T thank him enough” was the message from Weymouth manager Bobby Wilkinson after learning Brendan Willson’s loan from Eastleigh will not be extended.

Willson’s one-month loan deal expires on Wednesday and it is understood he will play no part in tomorrow’s Dorset Senior Cup clash with Hamworthy United.

Willson, 19, has played four times for the Terras while on loan and is highly-rated by the Spitfires, who have previously given the centre-back four National League games.

However, the loss of Willson is a cruel blow for Weymouth after the defender scored twice and recorded two clean sheets during his short time at the club.

READ MORE: Weymouth 0-0 Cheshunt - match reaction

Speaking to Echosport, Wilkinson said: “I’ve absolutely loved working with the youngster. I was desperate to keep him on loan with us to keep helping him.

“He’s been brilliant, he’s the sort of calibre that I like to bring to the football club. For a loanee to come in and do what he’s done, he deserves a lot of credit.

“Two goals in the four games and the last two home games two clean sheets. I can’t thank him enough.

“I’m very disappointed to lose him. Eastleigh are not extending. I truly wanted to work with him for another month or to the end of the season if I could.

“I can see something special in this lad and I think I could’ve helped him move up that ladder like I’ve done with the last few centre halves I’ve had.”

Willson’s exit means Weymouth only have centre-backs Nathan Carlyle and Dan Matsuzaka as fit defenders.

“Let’s not beat about the bush, we only have two defenders,” Wilkinson said.

“One’s been ill (Matsuzaka) and he’ll play tomorrow in the cup. I’m truly disappointed because I’m trying to build something.

“This is why I don’t like loan players. People laugh at that, but this is what happens.

“You build a partnership and then it gets ripped up overnight.

“Listen, I can’t thank Eastleigh enough for allowing him to come with us, but I’m truly disappointed because I wanted to keep him.”