PROUD dad Steve Cook admitted fatherhood had altered his mindset on football and vowed to “give everything” for his family and team.

The 27-year-old, a dad to Frey, 3, and Eden, 1, is yet to miss a minute of Premier League action this season and has been instrumental in guiding Cherries to sixth in the table.

He got the chance to walk out with his kids at Vitality Stadium having skippered Eddie Howe’s men against Leicester earlier this campaign.

And Cherries’ record Premier League appearance-maker admitted he had been inspired by those closest to him to perform at the highest level.

Speaking about being able to share his career with his sons, Cook told the Daily Echo: “It’s why I play football – to give them moments like that.

“Becoming a dad a few years ago really changed my mindset on everything. I try to give everything for them and my team.

“Before a game they are my thoughts. My family are what inspires me to go and do well. That is where I am at right now.

“I am quite an emotional guy, quite a passionate man so my kids, my wife, my family and my team-mates are what drives me.”

A £170,000 signing from Brighton in January 2012, Cook starred as Howe's side clinched promotion from League One in 2013 and from the Championship in 2015.

He has since gone on to appear in 120 Premier League games for the Dorset club.

The defender dedicated his dramatic last-gasp winner at Newcastle 12 months ago to youngest son Eden and revealed Frey had started to take up the game after seeing his dad in action.

“Frey is the oldest and is football mad,” added the Hastings-born star.

“Not so much Eden because I don’t think he knows what’s going on right now. But Frey loves football.

“There’s not too much chatting about the game with him right now. I’m not quite looking forward to that, just in case he spots a few different things about myself!

“But he is always out in the garden and wants to play – he’s a left footer so I’m hoping he’s going to be my pension!

“Hopefully I can teach Frey a few bits in the garden and it’s just nice that he enjoys it – it always puts a smile on my face.

“I won’t take it too seriously with either of them. If they want to play football that’s amazing – if they don’t it’s not a problem.”

Cook will be hoping to keep his place when Cherries host Arsenal on Sunday (1.30pm).

He played 90 minutes as the Dorset club came from behind to beat the Gunners 2-1 at home when the sides last met in January.

Jordon Ibe’s inaugural goal for the club proved decisive after Callum Wilson’s strike cancelled out an earlier effort from Hector Bellerin.

Victory over Unai Emery’s side would see Cherries record their seventh league win of the season.