DEFENDER Steve Cook believes changed man Brett Pitman is ready to dovetail a patient approach with his predatory instincts and fire Cherries to Championship glory.

Serial substitute Pitman made an instant impact when recalled to the starting line up with a strong display against Charlton last Saturday before netting a brace in Tuesday’s 3-0 success over Reading.

It took to four the Jerseyman’s goal tally from just five starts and three substitute appearances in all competitions ahead of tomorrow’s trip to Birmingham (3pm). 

Cook acknowledged that a lack of match action had been hard for Pitman to deal with but hailed the striker’s new-found outlook on life following the birth of his second child and backed his colleague to play a big part in Cherries’ quest for success.

Cook told the Daily Echo: “I have known Brett for a couple of years and he has changed a lot in that time. 

“He has been here a while and probably hasn’t featured as much as he would have liked this season but his attitude has been second to none. 

“I have heard all about his first stint here, he used to be a totally different character but has become a much calmer lad now. He doesn’t wind himself up so much and has started to get his rewards.

“As difficult as it is when you are not playing, you have to keep yourself going and having a second child recently is probably helping Brett to do that. 

“I’m full of praise for him because it’s not easy when you’re out of the side. He has coped with it as well as anyone I have seen and has taken his chance. Now it is up to him to stay in the team.”

Pitman’s midweek double saw Cherries score more than one goal in a home league game for only the second time this season, a fact not lost on Cook.

“Brett is one of the best finishers I have played with,” said Cook. “That is one of his best qualities, it just comes naturally to him and hopefully he can kick on and keep adding to his tally.

“He came back to pre-season training in the best shape he has ever been in and has worked really hard from day one. He gave us just what we needed at the right time against Reading and long may that continue.”