CHERRIES boss Eddie Howe revealed his delight after Artur Boruc triggered an appearance-related clause entitling him to a new deal.

Boruc agreed terms on a new one-year contract last summer which included provision for a further 12 months after he had played an agreed number of games.

And as the Daily Echo exclusively revealed yesterday, the 37-year-old former Polish international has now activated the clause.

Howe said: "I'm really pleased for Artur. I think he has been very consistent for us this season – again.

"The goalkeeper's position is such a crucial one for any team and he has been in really good form of late. Since the Manchester United game, he has really come back into his best form.

"He has made some crucial saves which have won us points."

Cherries were linked with Chelsea keeper Asmir Begovic and Blues defender Nathan Ake during the January transfer window and those rumours resurfaced this week.

Howe added: "As usual with me, you will get no comment on transfer speculation, especially when we are in the middle of the season and have really important games to focus on.

"I will only speak about the players which we have here."