JASON Pearce expressed delight for his former Cherries team-mates and insisted he was not envious of them.

Pearce skippered Cherries through a tumultuous period in the club’s recent history before leaving following the 2011 League One play-off near miss against Huddersfield.

Captain during the Greatest Escape from relegation in 2009 – when Cherries overcame a 17-point deduction to preserve their Football League status – Pearce led them to promotion from League Two just 12 months later.

Sold to Portsmouth after Cherries had lost out on penalties to the Terriers in the play-off semi-final, Pearce had spells with Leeds and Wigan before moving to Charlton at the start of last season.

During his time at Dean Court, he played alongside the likes of Marc Pugh, Harry Arter and Rhoys Wiggins – all of whom have enjoyed the trappings of life in the Premier League.

Speaking to the Daily Echo ahead of the visit of Huddersfield, Pearce said: “I was there through the really tough times when the club nearly went out of existence.

“We had a 10-point deduction in League One and a 17-point deduction in League Two, both for getting into financial difficulty.

“The players had to take deductions in their finances as well but I think it stands you in good stead for the rest of your career and even in life.

“I had a great reception from the supporters when I went back with Leeds and hold the club close to my heart. They were tough, but enjoyable and memorable, times.

“Every player dreams of playing in the Premier League. I look at Pughie now and would love to play there. But, in my eyes, everything happens for a reason.

“I can look at myself in the mirror every day and say I have tried my hardest in everything I have done.

“It just hasn’t worked out so far and I haven’t been good enough (to play in the Premier League). That’s me being totally honest.

“But, at the end of my career, I know I will look back and say I gave it everything. I am pleased with how far I have gone so far and have worked my socks off to do what I have done.”

During his time as an apprentice at Portsmouth, Pearce shared digs in North End with Asmir Begovic.

Pearce said: “When I first saw him play, I thought ‘wow, this guy is the real deal’.

“I was in digs with him and got to know him really well. Earning the small amount of money he was as an apprentice, I knew he would go on to do well.

“I knew he would play at the highest level and knew he would never change and he hasn’t changed at all as a guy. That’s credit to him and his family and the way he was brought up.

“Everyone speaks highly of him and I am so pleased with how well he has done in the game. I am delighted he is doing well for Bournemouth and he will have a good career there.”