ANDREW Surman described as “massive” the tussle between Norwich and Cherries and added: “It will be interesting to see how it goes.”

The 34-year-old is currently a free agent having left Cherries in the summer.

He joined the Dorset club permanently from Norwich in September 2014 following a successful loan spell at Vitality Stadium.

Speaking ahead of the sides’ battle at Cherries on Sunday (4pm), Surman told the Norwich City website: “I mean, it’s a massive game for both clubs.

“I know it’s a long season, but it’s important in the Championship to get momentum early I think because you want to be up and in the top six as the season goes on.

“When you’re in the top six in the Championship, you play like a top-six team.

“When you’re mid-table or down below, you feel like you’re always scrapping to get up the league, whereas when you’re up there you’re usually playing well and with confidence.

“Both teams will want to win it and put themselves up there in that position where they’re already within touching distance of the top two. It’s important to pick up points early in the league.

“It will be a good game with both teams coming down from the Premier League last season with very good squads, so it will be interesting to see how it goes.”

The former Southampton and Wolves ace is still keeping himself sharp while trying to secure a new club – and has no intentions of stopping playing.

“I’m out of contract with Bournemouth so it’s just a waiting game to see what pops up,” he said.

“It’s a completely different window to any other - it’s unprecedented because of the COVID situation, so it’s difficult for clubs to invest in players.

“I’m keeping myself ticking over, keeping fit, and hopefully a club will come in for me and I can carry on playing for a few more years.”