CARL Fletcher could not hide his delight after watching Cherries under-21s qualify for the Premier League Cup.

A 3-1 win over Wigan at Robin Park Arena – courtesy of efforts from Ollie Harfield and Connor Mahoney and an own goal – propelled Fletcher's troops into the group stages.

Wolves, Norwich and Bury will provide the opposition in Group C with the top two advancing to the knockout rounds after each team has played six fixtures.

Fletcher told the club website: “It’s a massive result for us to get into this competition.

“They will be different types of games from the friendlies and league fixtures, which is a huge bonus.

“We want to give the players different experiences and playing at proper stadiums is part of what we want to expose them to.

“It’s good for the lads to learn in different environments and to also get them out of their comfort zone."