CAPTAIN Tommy Elphick won the prestigious Daily Echo/Micky Cave Trophy and then declared: “Joining Bournemouth was the best decision I have ever made.”

Elphick has quickly erased the memory of his injury-plagued 2011-12 campaign with Brighton by firmly establishing himself as a fans’ favourite at Dean Court.

The influential central defender, last week appointed club captain, has been chosen by Echo readers as the club’s supporters’ player of the season.

Elphick thanked the Cherries faithful after claiming 29 per cent of the votes to fend off competition from striker Brett Pitman and right-back Simon Francis for the historic and long-standing award.

The £200,000 summer signing from the Seagulls has made 37 appearances in all competitions to play a key role in Cherries’ League One promotion push.

Elphick admitted that leaving hometown club Brighton had been a “gamble” but insisted the move had paid handsome dividends for his career.

He told the Daily Echo: “With the season we have had, especially since the turnaround under the gaffer, the award could have gone to any one of 10 or 12 lads. I am just picking up the trophy on behalf of the players.

“I thank the supporters for the award. It is amazing to be recognised, especially after the 18 months I had before.

“I still don’t feel I am at my best and still feel like I have got a little bit more improving to do until I am back to my best.

“To pick up this award is something I could have only dreamed of last season when I was sitting out injured. A year is a long time in football. I look at it now and joining Bournemouth was the best decision I have ever made.

“Every decision is a gamble in football. I left home and I was always of the opinion that, to get the best out of myself, I would have to get away from Brighton and make my own way.

“I had a great time at Brighton and had nothing but happy memories there, but I am truly focused on Bournemouth now and getting over the line in the last two games.”

Regardless of how Cherries’ rivals perform, victories in their final two matches of the season would guarantee promotion for Howe’s team.

Speaking ahead of tomorrow’s home clash with Carlisle (3pm), Elphick added: “It is in our hands now. At this stage of the season, that is a nice thing and everyone would have taken that when the gaffer came in.

“Whatever happens this season, to go from where we were to where we are now is a fantastic achievement. To get here now and not take this opportunity would be mad.”