STEPHEN Purches wants his fledgling Cherries to draw inspiration from Bashley’s joint-boss Paul Gazzard when they line up for the New Forest legend’s testimonial tonight (7.45pm).

Purches, who has recently taken charge of the development squad at Cherries, will take his team to Bash three days before his own testimonial against West Ham.

Gazzard, who captained the Southern League outfit to the South & West title in 2008, has featured in every playing position for his club, including goalkeeper, as well as serving as assistant to ex-boss Steve Riley.

Since then, the dependable full-back has acted as coach, stand-in physio and even repair-man when the showers have needed fixing during his decade at Bashley Road.

And Cherries stalwart Purches, who celebrates his own lengthy spell at Dean Court on Saturday, says his young charges can learn from Gazzard’s stoic service.

Purches told the Daily Echo: “I have always been grateful for the position I have been in but when you see what Paul has done for his club, it really demonstrates what football is about.

“There are people who do not realise how lucky they are and I will always let the lads in my team know that they should feel fortunate to be learning their trade in the professional game.

“Lots of players are making the most of their footballing careers despite being in much harder positions and our lads should want to grasp their chance because the club is in a good place at the moment.

“I always use Frank Lampard as the example. His dad was assistant manager at West Ham and he could have taken things easily, but he was always the first on the training ground and the last off it, and look at the career he has made for himself.

“It is good for our lads to understand that things don’t just come on a plate.

“People like Paul Gazzard are great examples for them to learn from and I am sure the Bashley crowd will turn out well for him.”

Cherries could name both Stephane Zubar and Wes Thomas in their team to face Bash.