DEFENDER Simon Francis believes keeping the Cherries squad intact through the transfer window was “vital” for the club.

Francis was the subject of two failed bids from Championship rivals Derby over the summer and last month pledged his commitment to Cherries by signing a new three-year contract.

The 29-year-old, who was voted player of the year by Cherries supporters last season, was one of a number of members of Eddie Howe’s squad to be linked with other clubs.

But despite being forced to sell leading scorer Lewis Grabban to Norwich after they had triggered a release clause in his contract, Cherries managed to hold on to their other prized assets.

Francis told the Daily Echo: “I wouldn’t have said anybody in the squad was looking to leave and it was vital we kept everyone together. I think the manager has the right blend and the right number of players.

“I am sure he was looking for additions and we got one in Andrew Surman who we all know really well. He did really well for us last season, especially at the back-end when I thought he was one of our best players. He will come back into the squad and fight for his place. He is a top-class player and I think we were fortunate to get him from Norwich because he will be an important player for us.

“It will be down to the manager to see what else he wants to do with the squad. I think it is at a good level and we have lads who are ready to come in. The manager has put his trust in Baily (Cargill) to be first reserve at centre-half because was top drawer all through pre-season and in the games he has played. We have lads all over the pitch who can play in all the positions so are in a good place now.”

Cherries’ financial position under Maxim Demin is far healthier than in previous years and Francis was one of the first arrivals after the Russian businessman had taken a 50 per cent stake in the club.

Francis added: “Maybe other clubs might still think we are little old Bournemouth, coming in and enquiring about players or making bids. In reality, the club does not need to sell. They have a lot of financial backing now and can afford to keep players.

“Myself and Steve Cook signed new deals in the summer and it shows how far the club has come that they can offer contracts to players who there has been a bit of interest in.

“I was more than happy to stay. Everyone knows how much I enjoy it here and I was delighted to sign a new deal and I am sure Cookie was the same. If the manager is looking at keeping other lads for the longer term then I am sure they would be the same.

“This club is only going one way and that is up. I think we have seen that over the past couple of seasons.”