Given the club's injury crisis in midfield his lack of appearances of late showed that Burley did not believe he was ready to adapt to the pace of the English game.
An elegant passer of the ball, he helped Saints retain possession well in his brief appearances, but didn't do enough to catch the eye. Without the added element of aggression to his game or a major goal threat, it was difficult to see how he could force his way into midfield ahead of Wright, Pele, Idiakez or Prutton.
As it is, he frees up more space in the squad and on the wage bill for Saints to try and tie up the loan deals they have been working on, with a striker and short term loan for a midfielder the priorities.
Well liked around the club, it is a disappointment that we never really saw the best of his ability, but with half the season gone and the player desperate to play, the move suits both parties. We wish you well, Marcelo.