MICHAEL Symes is determined to earn the chance to star in Cherries’ play-off push – by successfully adjusting to his new role in the team.

The striker says he has been “reasonably happy” with his performances since being deployed in a deeper position in support of Wes Thomas.

Despite netting twice in his past four games, Symes has received some stick from a small minority of the Seward Stadium faithful.

But with three League One goals in seven starts this term, the 28-year-old is aiming to continue his run in Lee Bradbury’s preferred line-up.

Symes told the club website: “I’m playing in the hole which is a different role to what I am used to, and I have got a lot more defensive duties.

“It will take some time to get used to but it is good to be playing and I want to keep my place in the team.

“I have played the role in one-off games but never in a run of games.

“Sometimes, it is great because you can get on the ball loads and, at other times, it can be frustrating.

“It depends on how the other team set up but when we are on top of teams, I can get on the ball and create chances.

“All I wanted was a run in the team and, hopefully if we keep winning, that will continue to be the case.

“We are not just winning games because I’m in the team, but I want to be a big part of the team.

“My fitness levels are good at the moment and I feel I can play 90 minutes. Having not played for most of the first half of the season, I am happy just to be playing and will play anywhere.”