CHERRIES boss Eddie Howe put the finishing touches to his first summer signing and then described the addition of Elliott Ward as a “real coup” and a “big statement”.

Howe managed to fend off interest from a host of Championship clubs – including Nottingham Forest – to secure the services of the towering defender.

“His was a tough signature to get because he was highly in demand by a number of Championship clubs so it is a real coup to get him,” said Howe.

“Elliott is someone we have identified as a top-class centre-half and he fits our criteria for what we look for. He is technically excellent and composed on the ball. He is a good size (6ft 3ins) and a real threat in the box from set-plays. He has a great attitude off the pitch, he has leadership skills and experience in the Championship, which was crucial to us.

“I have known about him for a long time and he is someone who has always played at a higher level. He has played for some big clubs, so the fact he has chosen us is a real positive for the club and for what we are trying to achieve here.

“He is a player I have liked whenever I have watched him and he did really well on loan at Forest last season.

“It is a big signing and a big statement by the club. It is great that a player of his calibre and intelligence wanted to sign for us ahead of other clubs. That is probably the biggest thing that pleases me and, hopefully, should please every Bournemouth supporter.

“To get an established Championship player to come here is a great thing for the club and, hopefully, means we are building and trying to be competitive in what will be a very difficult division.”