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Howe too expensive for Shrimps to keep
Sammy McIlroy says Morecambe have been priced out of the market in their bid to bring striker Rene Howe back to Christie Park.
Peterborough have slapped a 200,000 price tag on Howe, who has returned to London Road after a successful season-long loan spell with Morecambe.
McIlroy said: "He did well for us, but we can't afford that type of money – it is out of our range.
"We can't get anywhere near that, so I've probably drawn a line under that one."
The 22-year-old scored 12 goals in 41 appearances for the Shrimps, his most recent effort coming in the 2-1 win over Bradford City on Good Friday.
But Howe was left out of last weekend's trip to Exeter City for disciplinary reasons.
"He didn't travel to Exeter, said McIlroy. "I was very disappointed but it is an internal matter and that's all I'm going to say about the matter."
The Shrimps boss says he is already planning for next season, and with several of his first-team squad out of contract it will be a hectic summer.
McIlroy said: "There is a lot of work to be done, and there will be some comings and goings, because I need to strengthen the squad in certain areas.
"We have a fantastic foundation to build on, the nucleus of a very good side, but we have to do better next season and make sure that we progress.
"Two years ago we were a Conference club, but we are now established in the Football League, and we should be proud of that achievement."
Morecambe finish their league programme against Bournemouth at Christie Park tomorrow.
McIlroy said: "We were in the bottom half of the table in January, so it has been a great effort from the lads.
"It is just unfortunate that we fell a little bit short of the play-offs with too many draws, but we've lost twice in 20 games since the end of January – and that's a terrific effort.
"But to be in the top half after a season of horrendous injuries, suspensions and the transfer embargo is a credit to the boys, who've shown incredible spirit."
Bournemouth, docked 17 points at the start of the season, ensured their League Two survival last weekend.
McIlroy added: "I'd like to congratulate Bournemouth. It is an incredible achievement for them to stay up, and I'm glad they did. But it would be great if we could finish off in front of our fans with a win tomorrow."
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Weather for Preston
Friday 25 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 13 C to 24 C
Wind Speed: 18 mph
Wind direction: East
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Sunny
Temperature: 12 C to 22 C
Wind Speed: 17 mph
Wind direction: East
