Vokes grateful for rival's advice

7:00am Friday 28th December 2007

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RISING star Sam Vokes says Lee Bradbury has been instrumental in his recent emergence - despite it costing the experienced campaigner his place.

Teenage striker Vokes has turned in a series of eye-catching displays since seizing his chance after Bradbury suffered a dip in form.

But despite being relegated to the bench, Bradbury's consummate professionalism has shone through, with Vokes and Cherries reaping the benefits.

Vokes told the Daily Echo: "Bradders has been brilliant with me. He's been giving me some good advice, which is great because I'm still learning my trade.

"I was asked to play as a lone striker against Orient and Bradders gave me some excellent pointers on how to play and how to deal with situations.

"He's played there hundreds of times in his career so to receive advice from players like him, Jo Kuffour and Steve Fletcher all helps and is invaluable."

Vokes, 18, is nearing the end of his first full year in the pro ranks having made a dramatic impact since bursting on to the scene a little over 12 months ago.

"It's been a dream come true for me," said the Lymington-based youngster. "Not just here but with Wales as well.

"I'm starting a few games now rather than just coming off the bench and will be looking to build on things next year.

"The past 12 months have been great and I topped it off by getting my first professional goal in front of the North Stand against Orient.

"The Swindon game is massive for us. We've beaten Gillingham and Orient in our past two homes games so hopefully we can make it three on the trot."

Blooded by boss Kevin Bond, Vokes, who has hit four goals in six games for Wales under-21s, is 12 months into a three-and-a-half year contract and could attract interest during the transfer window.

Bond said: "He's worked tirelessly over the past few weeks and performed particuarly well. I was glad to see him get what proved to be a consolation goal at Tranmere and really pleased to see him get an important goal against Orient.

"He is certainly one hell of a prospect and I just feel that he's come on in the past four or five weeks. He's done well coming off the bench but he's done extremely well when he's started.

"I expect him to take a dip as all youngsters do and may have to pull him out of the situation but he's proving a real handful for defenders at this moment in time and hopefully he'll end up being a really good player."