STEVE Fletcher put the finishing touches to his latest Cherries contract and then said he was “as determined as ever” to fight for his place – even at the 600th time of asking.

The popular striker, who turned 37 last week, has finalised terms on a new 12-month deal after exercising an option in his previous contract.

Fletcher played a key role in helping Cherries preserve their Football League status after returning to Dean Court from Crawley in January.

And the club’s record appearance holder, who has played 599 games since first signing in 1992, is in contention to bring up the magical milestone during Cherries’ League Two opener at Bury.

Fletcher told the Daily Echo: “It would have been pointless signing the option in May or June because we didn’t know what was happening at the club. But now things are stabilised, we’ve got new owners and everything seems to be on the up, I felt it would be the right time to negotiate.

“We had 21 games left when I came back and I had a year left on my contract at Crawley. I asked if there would be a possibility of having the option if I played a certain number of games and I did it by March.

“There were a few things to discuss and both parties had to be happy with it. Now it’s done and dusted, I just want to get on with the job in hand. It’s important to me to be on the pitch on Saturday and, hopefully, it’s important for Eddie to have me there.”

Fletcher, who received approaches from two other clubs, including one from a higher division, was ever present following his return and netted the goal that ensured Cherries would avoid the drop to cap a memorable 2-1 win over Grimsby in April.

The Teessider, who has had his fair share of injury problems, especially with his knees, added: “Realistically, I’m probably not going to play all 46 league games this season. But a lot of people, including myself, said I wouldn’t play the final 21 games last season and I did.

“There are going to be times when I won’t be able to play Saturday-Tuesday but, if I’m in the team and play well on a Saturday and feel good enough on a Tuesday then I’ll play, like last season.

“Eddie lets me train and prepare so he can get the best out of me. That’s the way it’s been for past few years and don’t think anything will change.

“You’ve got to play well when you get the chance. I thought I did well last season but I always knew my place was under threat and that goes for every player.”