CHARLIE Austin has slammed as “outrageous” and a “shambles” the latest plight surrounding his former club Poole Town’s ground.

The Dolphins are facing the prospect of being relegated from the National League South unless they can find £70,000 to get their Tatnam headquarters up to scratch, writes Neil Perrett.

Austin, who made his name at the non-League club, hit out on Twitter by asking: “How can the top people let this happen?”

Although the Southampton striker did not expand on who his post had been aimed at, a follow-up tweet made clear it had not been directed at any club official.

Responding to a post which urged him to “chuck a few quid in” to help Poole, Austin made reference to the fact his sale had helped fund previous improvements at Tatnam and added: “Love the club and everyone involved, I've done my bit."

Austin bagged 64 goals in 57 appearances in the Wessex League for the Dolphins, his exploits earning him a move to the Football League with Swindon Town in 2009.

He then joined Burnley in a £1.2million transfer in 2012 before being snapped up by Southampton in a bargain £4million switch 12 months ago.

A Poole Town tweet read: “Much appreciated Charlie. The Swindon money paid for the last significant upgrade and allowed promotion to the Conf.”