ADAM Barrett says he is relishing “a new challenge” with Cherries after spending a year in the doldrums at Crystal Palace.

Barrett yesterday finally completed his move from Selhurst Park when he joined Cherries for an undisclosed fee and penned a two-year deal.

The 31-year-old defender becomes boss Lee Bradbury’s third summer signing, following goalkeeper Darryl Flahavan and midfielder Steven Gregory.

Barrett, who helped Southend win promotion to the Championship in 2006, was restricted to just five league starts for Palace last season.

He said: “Palace was a good move for me at the time but it was a frustrating season and I didn’t think I got the opportunity. It was stop-start and I never got a run of games. I would love to have played every game, but, unfortunately, it didn’t work out that way.

“It has been difficult getting out of Palace and the manager said he didn’t want me to go but I wanted to play regular football.

“There were a couple of other clubs interested but, once Lee made the approach, this was the only place I wanted to come. I’ve got a lot of respect for Lee and for the way the club has moved forward. There has been a lot of progress and, hopefully, I can come in and bring a bit of expereince. I’m determined to help keep the progression going.

“Bournemouth were unfortunate last season and, hopefully, we will be pushing again this season. I have been there before when you have just missed out in the play-offs and it is always difficult the following season to maintain expectations. But, from the short time I have been here, I have seen the focus and determination. I can’t wait to get started.”

Bradbury, who played alongside Barrett at Southend, said: “Adam is aggressive and very good in the air. He is a leader and somebody the lads will look up to. He knows what it takes to win this league. With Jason Pearce going, I needed to replace a leader with a leader.

“He has got all the attributes and is perfect for what we need. Adam is still young enough to do a great job for us for years to come so I think we have got the perfect combination of youth and experienced heads.”

Meanwhile, Bradbury was last night waiting to hear whether an improved bid for Charlton Athletic defender Simon Francis had been accepted. Cherries’ first offer for the 26-year-old was rejected on Monday.

• Former Grimsby Town manager Paul Groves had joined the Cherries youth department. Groves will work alongside head of youth Shaun Brooks and could have responsibility for the club’s under-18s.