7:00am Monday 30th June 2008
By Ian Wadley
KEVIN Bond has challenged mercurial forward Brett Pitman to make a "big impression" next season.
The 20-year-old made 46 first-team appearances for Cherries last term, 29 of which came from the bench.
But he is likely to play a more important role come August, with the departure of frontline forward Sam Vokes leaving Pitman and Jo Kuffour as the only strikers in the squad because Lee Bradbury is likely to be used as a right-back.
"I think he's capable," Cherries boss Bond told the Daily Echo.
"To a degree he did it in fits and starts last season and wasn't a regular starter. But he's certainly going to be given the opportunity this year and he needs to take it.
"He's now played in something like 100 matches for the first team and I'm looking for him to make his mark now.
"I'd like him to make a big impression if he can this season."
Despite only playing cameo roles at times last season, Pitman notched seven goals and, reflecting Cherries' own form, he improved during the latter stages of the campaign.
And the Jersey-born player, who has agreed in principle to a new two-year deal with the Dean Court club, is keen to kick on next term.
He said: "I was delighted to stay and hopefully I'll do well next season.
"I want to start more games this season. Last season, especially towards the back end, I thought I did well when I was on the pitch.
"Hopefully the team will do well from the start this season."
Pitman is aiming to forge a good partnership with Kuffour.
"We played together a couple of times last year and I like playing with Jo, he's a good footballer," he told the Daily Echo.
"He's sharp and did well for us last season, hopefully we can do well.
"Hopefully I can do well in pre-season and start the season well. I'd start anywhere, I just want to be in the team come the first day of the season."
Despite not being sure of what challenges will be posed by League Two, Pitman is hoping Cherries can continue to play their own style.
He said: "The grounds we go to won't be as big so it might be more intimidating, but I don't think the football will be much different.
"People say it's more physical, but hopefully we'll be able to pass the ball.
"I don't see any reason why we should change that."
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