Bournemouth skipper Shaun Cooper has penned a new 12-month contract with the League Two outfit.
Skipper pens 12-month extension
Bournemouth skipper Shaun Cooper has penned a new 12-month contract with the League Two outfit.
The 25-year-old's current deal was set to expire at the end of June, but he has exercised the option to extend that agreement by a further year.
The versatile midfielder believes there are exciting times ahead at Dean Court, following a recent takeover, and he is delighted to have committed his future to the club.
"I've always said I've enjoyed my time here and I enjoy working with Eddie and the lads," said Cooper, who is currently convalescing after undergoing hernia surgery last month.
"We had a strong finish to last season and have got a good squad together so I feel this is the best chance since I've been here to challenge for promotion."
He added: "It's been very frustrating for everyone and there have been times when the lads have had enough.
"Things have never really run smoothly off the pitch since I've been here but it's never been as bad as it has been lately. As much as you don't want to, you get used to it.
"But it looks like we could be turning a corner now with new people taking over. Eddie's (Howe) in charge and there are a good bunch of lads here so I'm optimistic for next season.
"With no points deduction, anything could happen next season. We've proved we can beat the best in this division.
"We've had points deductions in the past two seasons and we won't have the negative mental side like we had last season. It's a fresh start and I'm really looking forward to it."
Flattering
Meanwhile, it has been revealed that the Cherries' highly-rated coaching duo of Eddie Howe and Jason Tindall have been generating interest from afar.
"Since the end of the season, representatives from clubs have been in contact to see how the land lies," Tindall told the
Bournemouth Daily Echo.
"It's flattering for people to show an interest but we both hold Bournemouth close to our hearts and nothing would please us more than to be successful here rather than somewhere else.
"We are keen to build on last season's achievements and try to take the club forward.
"If I were a player, Eddie is the type of person I would want as a manager because he brings out the best in people and I would want to play for him.
"I am under no illusions that Eddie is going to be a very successful manager and will achieve great things in his career."
Bournemouth have also appointed former shot-stopper Neil Moss as their new goalkeeping coach.
