STEVE Fletcher admits he still pinches himself over Cherries’ “astronomical” rise to prominence in English football.

A club legend following two distinguished spells at Dean Court, Fletcher made more than 700 appearances for Cherries.

The combative frontman achieved three promotions and scored the goal that secured The Greatest Escape in 2009, calling time on his playing career in 2013 following the Dorset side’s elevation to the Championship.

Now assistant first-team coach and club ambassador, the 44-year-old admits Cherries’ continued rise – all the way to the Premier League – has a feeling of unreality about it.

Fletcher told the Daily Echo: “Surreal is probably the most apt word to describe what has happened. Of course we’re all aware of it and mindful of it but you don’t really get time to sit down and analyse it.

“The only time you really think about it is when the supporters come up to you and tell you about it.

“We talk about it as staff members but it’s life and you get on with it. You don’t really have time to break it down and think too much. On a daily basis, it slips your mind.

“It’s astronomical. You have to keep your feet on the ground but there are times you have to reflect and be proud of what the football club has achieved – from the owner, to the manager, players and staff.

“Everyone has had a part to play. To be playing the likes of AC Milan and regularly hosting the likes of Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham – sometimes you do have to pinch yourself.”

Despite Cherries’ current lofty position in the pyramid, Fletcher is adamant the club’s history remains as important as ever.

And Fletcher, who scored in the League Two play-off final victory over Lincoln in 2003, insists the club’s achievements in the lower leagues should not be diminished.

He continued: “Those games were important because without those games, we wouldn’t be where we are now. The manager always make sure when a player comes in that they know about the history of the club.

“The manager has always been a big believer in not forgetting where you came from. As soon as you do that, you lose track of where you want to go and it’s so true.

“That runs right through the club from the chairman to the chief executive and the supporters – they always remind you of where we were at.

“History is important. Whether we’re playing Lincoln or Manchester United, it has its own moment.

“Of course in stature you are not going to compare the two teams but in the scheme of things, it was as important at the time.

“It wasn’t just Lincoln, there were many other games that were pivotal to kick-starting us and getting us to where we are now.”