Cherries boss Eddie Howe is desperate to keep Marc Pugh and hopes the possibility of a promotion push could persuade him to sign a new deal.

Recently-appointed manager Howe revealed he had already held brief talks with Pugh and his agent as he aims to tempt the winger to commit his long-term future to the Dorset club.

Pugh’s current contract expires at the end of the season and the talented 25-year-old rejected Cherries’ offer of fresh terms during the summer.

The fans’ favourite, who has made no secret of his desire to play in the Championship, has scored 29 goals in 108 Cherries appearances.

Pugh demonstrated some of his best form to net twice in Cherries’ 4-2 win at Carlisle on Saturday.

And Howe, who brought Pugh to Dean Court from Hereford during his first stint in the hot-seat, is a big admirer of the Lancastrian’s qualities.

Discussing the contracts of his current squad, Howe told the Daily Echo: “I know there are a couple, one in particular Marc Pugh, that we want to address if we can. But, hopefully, all the lads will want to be part of what we are trying to do.”

Asked whether he had spoken to Pugh, Howe added: “I have had a brief conversation with him and his representative but it will be something that, hopefully, we can sort out. Hopefully, Marc is enjoying his time.

“If he can see that we are progressing as a football club and trying to get to where he wants to play, then hopefully he will stick with us. Ever since we first saw him, we immediately really liked him, his characteristics and the way he plays the game. He scored two really good goals on Saturday and looked a real threat throughout.”

Speaking after his Brunton Park heroics, Pugh said there was no update. He told the Daily Echo: “I am ambitious and I have always said I want to try to play in the Championship. If it is with Bournemouth, then great. We will just see what happens.”

Meanwhile, former Cherries assistant boss Russ Wilcox has returned to Scunthorpe as number two to Brian Laws. Wilcox was placed on gardening leave by Cherries after the departure of Lee Bradbury.

  • Cherries’ young guns host AFC Totton at Goldsands Stadium tonight in an FA Youth Cup first round clash (kick-off 7.30pm).

The tie will be settled on the night, with extra-time and penalties if required. The cost of entry is £5 for adults and £3 concessions.