DARREN Anderton is hopeful that pre-season will be the spur to even better things as he prepares for his second season in a Cherries shirt.

The former England international joined the club in September last year and admits that he was playing catch-up with his fitness after missing pre-season. But after rediscovering his match fitness, the former Tottenham star went on to carry off the Daily Echo Micky Cave Player of the Year prize after a succession of classy performances - and he's hoping to raise the bar even higher this time around.

Anderton told the Daily Echo: "When I came here last season I hadn't played football for four or five months, so it took me a while to get going. But once I did get going - especially after Christmas - I felt great.

"Hopefully, there is more to come from me this season. I was pleased with how it went last season, but with a good pre-season under my belt, there is no reason why I cannot do even better.

"I'm feeling fit, looking forward to the games and I'm counting down the days until the new season starts."

Anderton is expected to play in Tuesday night's clash at Weymouth (7.30pm kick-off) as Kevin Bond's men step up their pre-season campaign after gentle run-outs in their first two fixtures.

The 35-year-old admits he is not one to relish the slog of pre-season, but he will also be well aware of its use when August 11 rolls around.

He sa'id: "Having done lots of pre-seasons throughout my career, it is really hard work and an absolute pain.

"But it is so important to get yourself through it because once you've done it, you are right up to speed when the season comes around.

He added: "It's pretty hard as you go from one extreme to the other.

"On holiday, you're getting up when you want, going on the golf course when you like. But then you're back to working hard, doing double sessions and back in the routine.

"All the boys keep themselves in good shape over the summer, but we'll still be working as hard as we possibly can between now and the start of the season."