Cherries boss Paul Groves has drawn up a short-list for a holding midfielder – with Anton Robinson and Richard Hughes believed to be on it.

Former Cherries star Hughes reluctantly hung up his boots 12 months ago to become a restaurant owner but is understood to be keen on the possibility of a return.

Hughes, who made more than 150 appearances for Cherries between 1998 and 2002, spent four years working under Groves when he was on the coaching staff at Portsmouth.

The 33-year-old Scot was at Fratton Park for nine years before his stay came to a disappointing end due to financial issues with clauses in his playing contract.

Robinson, meanwhile, left Dean Court for Huddersfield 12 months ago but failed to establish himself as a regular as the Terriers won promotion to the Championship.

The 26-year-old, who is 12 months into a three-year deal at the Galpharm Stadium, was restricted to 12 league starts as Huddersfield went up through the play-offs.

Daily Echo sources suggest Cherries could be in dialogue with Town to discuss a possible fee for Robinson who cost the Terriers around £250,000 when he left Dorset.

Groves is keen to increase competition in midfield with Steven Gregory and Joe Partington both having filled the anchorman role during pre-season friendlies.

Asked by the Echo whether Hughes and Robinson were possible targets, Groves replied: “They are both players we are more than aware of and players who have got good pedigree so, if something were to materialise, then certainly we would look at it.

“I know Richard very well. He has played at the highest level and, as a holding midfield player, fits the bill. Anton is somebody that people know. They are both decent players in their own right.”

Discussing the holding midfield role, Groves added: “We ask the two central midfielders to play with a degree of discipline.

“We don’t want to stop them from joining attacks as play develops.

“It is an area one or two people have played and one or two have taken to it better than others.

“You are constantly looking to strengthen areas that you feel maybe you could improve. I think you look at everything when you go through the squad.”

Trialist Jonathan Meades could again feature when Cherries step up their pre-season friendlies by hosting Premier League new boys Reading tomorrow (3pm).

Frank Demouge, Donal McDermott, Steve Fletcher and Mark Molesley are unlikely to be risked, while Steve Cook is hoping to recover from a minor back injury.