NEW recruit Joshua King revealed how a persuasive phone call from boss Eddie Howe had rubber stamped his decision to pick Premier League Cherries.

The out-of-contract attacker, 23, today completed his switch from Blackburn Rovers, signing a three-year deal with the newly-promoted Dean Court club.

King will still command a fee as he is under the age of 24 with Cherries and Rovers in the throes of negotiating a compensation package for the former-Manchester United youngster. Should they fail to agree, the fee will be set by a tribunal.

The Norway international said he had been offered a three-year contract to remain at Ewood Park but that Howe’s influence – particularly over the past week – had proved decisive.

King told the club website: “I had a three-year offer from Blackburn but had been there two and a half years and did not play as often as I would have liked.

“Even before I had a couple of injuries, it felt like I hadn't got my chance and felt like I had to move forward.

“I have lived in Manchester for seven years and wanted to try something new but the main reason I came here was the manager and the interest Bournemouth showed in me.

“He (Howe) was honest and told me I would have to work for my place but said he loves the way I play football and my style. He thinks I can fit in with the team.

“I didn’t rush my decision. I knew I didn’t really want to stay at Blackburn but made my decision to come here when the manager called me last week and told me how much wanted me. That really made up my mind and made my decision clear.”

King suffered an injury-disrupted campaign last season but still pouched two goals for Norway in a Euro 2016 qualifying victory in Malta, as well as a memorable hat-trick in the FA Cup against Stoke when played up front.

And having caught the eye with that high-profile performance, King admitted his aim would be to secure a striker's role with Cherries.

“My preferred position is up front but I can also do a job on the wing,” he added.

“I was used on the wing a lot at Blackburn but showed what I could do when I got my chance in the last three months of the season.

King continued: “I was on the bench at Manchester United and played in the Champions League and FA Cup but never got on in the Premier League, so if I do get my chance it will be my first and that was a big factor (in signing).

“But the manager was more important. I have seen what he has done with the squad here and watched a couple of games. I think the football Bournemouth play will suit me very well.

“I’ve heard they have a good bunch of lads here so hopefully they can take me on and we can do well together as a team. Togetherness is important.”