OUT-of-contract goalkeeper Darryl Flahavan has revealed his desire to stay at Cherries and insisted his sights remained set on reclaiming the number one jersey.

Talks are ongoing between Cherries and the 35-year-old over a new deal, with the veteran stopper keen to commit despite overtures from other clubs.

Flahavan was restricted to just one substitute appearance in the Championship last season, made when Ryan Allsop was sent off in the 2-1 defeat at Leeds United on October 1.

Having picked up a thigh strain and dead leg during that match, six weeks on the sidelines left him unable to capitalise on Allsop’s suspension to kick-start an extended run in the side.

During that time, Lee Camp came in on loan from West Bromwich Albion and became undisputed first-choice for the rest of the campaign, signing a permanent deal with Cherries in January.

But despite stiff competition for places at Dean Court, the former Southend United favourite retains his bullish intent to play and sees no reason for his playing days in Dorset to end just yet.

Discussing the prospect of a new deal, Flahavan told the Daily Echo: “At the minute, I think Bournemouth is the right fit for me.

“I did look at the couple of things when they came up but felt that with the way the club has been going, that this was the place to be. At some stage over the next few weeks, I’m sure we will get something sorted.

“When I was considering my future, I wanted to see what my options were and what was best for my family. I still want to play and I think I will always have that mentality, which the manager knows.

“I’m not naive to think that I’m going to come in and play every game but if the chance comes along, I need to be ready because I still feel fit enough to play into my forties if I’m honest.

“Given the opportunity, if someone believes in me to continue as a player, then I think I’m more than capable of delivering. I train well, eat well and look after myself. I still feel as though I can go on for a number of years.”

Meanwhile, Flahavan will begin preparations for life beyond his on-field career by taking his UEFA B coaching licence in Gloucester this summer.

“I’m at that stage of my career,” he added. “I just want to get it done while I am still playing so when the time comes to jump over the fence, it is there.”