STEVE Cook says it would be "brilliant" for Cherries to sign John Terry but warned any new players they will face a "fight for their shirt".

Former England skipper Terry will leave Chelsea this summer after a wonderful 19-year career at Stamford Bridge, with Cherries reported to be among the frontrunners for the defender's signature.

Cook celebrated winning the Daily Echo/Micky Cave AFC Bournemouth player-of-the-year award by delivering the latest sterling performance of a personally excellent season as Cherries beat Burnley on Saturday.

That victory fired Eddie Howe's men up into the top half of the Premier League, strengthening the impression that Vitality Stadium is an attractive place for high-class footballers to ply their trade.

Asked by the Daily Echo if signing Terry was an exciting proposition, Cook said: "Of course it is. He is one of England’s best ever centre-halves.

"I’ve watched him since I was a kid and he has been outstanding. Obviously, if he does come in it would terrific, because you’re always going to learn off that kind of player.

"He's someone I have looked up to. He’s a right-footer who plays on the left side, you have to look at players like him because he is up there with the best. I think he has been a real inspiration for young English centre-halves and I think he still is."

If Terry – or any other centre-backs, for that matter – were to join Cherries for the next campaign, they would face a mighty struggle to displace Premier League ever-present Cook, or captain Simon Francis, from the middle of the team's defence.

"The core of this team has been together for a very long time," said Cook. "Players have come and gone over a number of years and it’s credit to the lads, because we have been rising to the challenge every year.

"Whoever comes in will improve this squad, we know that, but the defence on Saturday all played in League One and, hopefully, that will continue. I’m sure whoever comes in will contribute hugely, though.

"If it’s John Terry, brilliant, because he has so much experience. It would be fantastic because, years ago, you would never have thought you would play with a player like him.

"But, obviously, transfers are something for the manager to talk about. We’re just happy to be playing in this team and whoever comes in will have to fight for their shirt, because no one likes sitting on the bench."

While Cook was thrilled supporters had recognised his form in the player-of-the-year poll, he insisted he couldn't afford to rest on his laurels.

"It’s been a great season and I’ve been really pleased with myself," said Cook. "I need to improve to stay in this team, because the club is growing so quickly and improving, now it’s up to the lads in that changing room to improve with it because football doesn’t wait for anyone.

"I’m delighted with the awards I’ve got, now my focus is on improving. I have other targets and aims in my career, and, hopefully, I can achieve those."