EDDIE Howe admits that whilst there is a “tendency to lean towards experience” when choosing a goalkeeper, he is keen not to judge players solely on their age.

Irishman Mark Travers, who last week was linked with a possible loan move to Norwich or Leeds, started the final two Premier League games of 2018-19 just ahead of his 20th birthday and earned rave reviews for his debut performance in the 1-0 win against Tottenham Hotspur.

Before that, Artur Boruc, 19 years Travers’ senior, had started 13 of the previous 16 matches with 31-year-old Asmir Begovic playing in the other three.

And with England under-21 international Aaron Ramsdale also now back at Cherries following a successful loan spell with AFC Wimbledon, Howe has the option of youth or experience between the sticks.

Asked if he would prefer to have an older head in goal, the Cherries boss said: “I always think you’ve got to judge a player on them, not their age.

“I think that’s how I’ve always been.

“Yes, goalkeeping is different to being an outfield player and I think there is naturally a tendency to lean towards experience that comes with age and games because it’s such a pressure position and because every movement is analysed, especially in this league.

“I think there is a lot of internal and external pressure on you when you play in that position.

“But Mark Travers for example, he’s a very level-headed guy, he seems to rise to any occasion that you give him.

“It’s very early days in his career but certainly good signs to start with.”

Howe added: “Mentally he’s very, very strong. He’s a very stable lad, he’s come from a very, very good family and a really nice upbringing.

“His family were here for his debut and I think just having that family side with him by his side is probably the best way to ground you after a performance like he had.

“He’s a very level-headed lad.”