JEFFERSON Lerma believes his first season with Cherries “has gone very well”.

The all-action midfielder arrived in Dorset from Spanish side Levante last summer and quickly became a regular in Eddie Howe’s side, ending the campaign with 32 appearances and two goals to his name.

Colombia international Lerma, 24, had only ever played for clubs in his home country or Spain before moving to Cherries, but he feels he is settling in well to life in England.

Speaking to the club website, Lerma said: “It has gone very well. I have always been treated very well in the town and at the club and everybody has made me feel comfortable.

“The hardest part for me is the food. This is the main difference, but everything is going well.

“It’s very different to Colombia and Spain. English football is more direct.

“You always have the chance to come back, even if you’re losing 3-0 and everything is very evenly matched.”

He added: “English is something I must learn gradually, but football’s language is universal.

“Through hard work and following the coach’s instructions, I feel I have done a great job this season, knowing very little English.”