CHERRIES have appointed Hugo Faria as a first-team assistant coach.

The former Portugal under-20 international has joined following a playing career which took in spells in Scotland, Cyprus, Greece and Malta, as well as a string of clubs in his homeland.

Faria, who holds the UEFA A Licence, has coaching experience in the youth set-ups at Livingston, Airdrieonians and Portuguese outfit Louletano Desportos Clube.

Boss Eddie Howe believes the 35-year-old will add “positivity and vibrancy” to Cherries’ off-field operations.

Howe told the club website: “I’m really pleased to have Hugo as part of our coaching team.

“We wanted to bring in someone with the ability to speak different languages and who has experience of different footballing cultures and styles.

“It is very important that we are always open to new ideas and ways of working, and continually expanding our horizons.

“Hugo brings a positivity and vibrancy to the group and as soon as I met him, I knew he would be someone who would really complement our coaching staff.”