EDDIE Howe believes Artur Boruc still has a “lot more to give” after an impressive spell of form since the turn of the year.

The 39-year-old spent the first half of the campaign behind Asmir Begovic in the pecking order, but returned to the side in January for the 2-0 win over West Ham, his first Premier League appearance for 18 months.

Since then the Pole has missed just two league games and produced some fine stops in the defeat against Fulham last weekend.

Boruc joined Cherries from Southampton in 2014, initially on loan, and has played over 100 times for the club.

He penned a new one-year contract extension last year, which is due to expire in the summer.

Asked whether Boruc could still be at Cherries next season, Howe told the Daily Echo: “Absolutely.

“I think Artur’s shown that he’s got a lot more to give.

“I’ve been really impressed with Artur. He’s trained really well behind the scenes.

“He’s worked incredibly hard at his game. At his age to go a long time without playing to then suddenly be thrust into action, if you’re not looking and doing what you need to do then there’s no way you can perform.

“He’s come in and done that really well. Last week (against Fulham) I thought he was very good.

“He made a couple of really good saves for us, so long may that continue.”

Boruc is expected to keep his place tomorrow as Cherries make the short trip along the coast to face Southampton (3pm).

Despite sitting four points ahead of Saints having also finished above them last season, Cherries are still yet to register a victory away to their neighbours in the club’s history.

Southampton could seal their Premier League safety with a win and while Howe only has eyes for victory at St Mary’s, he admits he would like to see tomorrow’s opponents remain in the top flight.

He said: “I want the rivalry and I want the close teams around us (to stay up).

“I think that’s healthy for us and I think that’s healthy for the league.

“It’s been nice to have those encounters with Southampton. They’re passionate games, the same with Brighton.

“They’re passionate games between the supporters. There’s a real will to win from both sets of fans.

“I enjoy the games against them. We have had mixed results in the Premier League against Southampton.

“We’re desperate to try and improve our record against them.”

Since Cherries drew 0-0 with Southampton in October, Saints have changed their manager from Mark Hughes to Austrian Ralph Hasenhuttl.

And Howe says Southampton appear to have improved their team spirit since visiting Vitality Stadium.

“I’m not on the inside and don’t see how the players work day-to-day, but they look like they’ve got a good feel about them again,” said the Cherries boss.

“They look like they’ve got a united team and I always say about us, when we’re united and together, there’s nothing stronger than that force.”