ON-LOAN midfielder Andrew Surman claimed a healthy dose of self belief had been the key component in his recent return to form.

The Norwich City man made only his fourth Championship start for Cherries during the 3-0 defeat at QPR last week but maintained his place for Saturday’s 2-1 win at Reading.

Surman, who is on a season-long loan from the Canaries, acknowledged he had found his “stop-start” campaign difficult to deal with on the back of his injury woes last season.

But after nailing down his spot in consecutive league matches for the first time this season, the former Southampton star is keen to build on a brace of bright performances.

Surman told the Daily Echo: “It has been a frustrating season for me, especially after being injured for a lot of last season.

“I have been chomping at the bit to get back into the team and try to prove that I deserve my place. I hadn’t played for a few games so it feels good to be back in.

“There are a lot of good players at Bournemouth and competition for places is fierce so when you get a chance, you have to take it.

“But I believe in my ability and I know what I can do.

“It (not playing) can get you down but it’s all about maintaining that self belief. Things don’t always go your way and I have experienced that several times in my career.

“Any footballer will tell you there are ups and downs and when you are down you have to keep faith in your ability and take your chance when it comes.”

  • Cherries are expected to field trialist Will Spetch in a friendly at QPR tomorrow (noon).

The Poole Town defender could feature in the match at QPR’s Sipson Lane training facility in Harlington.