PAUL Hurst insists Richard Brodie left Blundell Park because the striker wasn't giving the joint bosses 'what they wanted'.
Following the former York City man's sudden return to Crawley this week, rumours of a 'bust-up' have been rife among Mariners fans.
But Hurst insists that it was simply because the striker's loan deal was not working out – for either party.
Brodie joined on a loan deal until the end of the season back in January.
At the time, hopes were high that he would be able to recapture the form that saw him finish as the Minstermen's top-scorer with 34 goals back in 2010.
But, after scoring just two league goals during his stint in Cleethorpes, the frontman has now returned to West Sussex.
And Hurst has cited Brodie's frustration at the lack of opportunities and his performances as the reasons behind his exit.
"We had a chat and decided that it was in everyone's best interest that he went back to Crawley," Hurst said.
"Richard was frustrated at the lack of starts that he's had.
"It wasn't a bust-up it was just a case of that he was frustrated at not playing.
"Also, we just felt he wasn't giving us what we wanted from him.
"From both perspectives, it was felt that it was best to draw a line under it.
"He's gone back to Crawley and we'll get on with it here."
He continued: "Against Gateshead on Tuesday, the lads gave us everything.
"They gave 100 per cent commitment and that's what we need from every player.
"Hopefully we'll get that and if we do, we'll be fine."
Brodie's departure has created a void in the Mariners squad and, with the loan window set to close this evening, Hurst has reiterated that the bosses are looking to do some business.
Long-term injury absentee Liam Hearn is now nearing full fitness after scoring two in the Town Reserves' 2-1 victory over Port Vale yesterday.
Hurst believes the striker's imminent return – along with Dayle Southwell's promising performance against Gateshead on Tuesday – means that Town are well-stocked in the striking department.
But he added that the management duo are still looking to strengthen in other areas.
"We're looking to bring a couple of lads in," he said.
"We've got options at the top end of the pitch but we'd like to bring more bodies in – it's just a case of finding the right ones – that's proving the difficulty at the minute."
