CHERRIES boss Kevin Bond has revealed he is facing competition for the services of Max Gradel.

The flying winger returned to parent club Leicester following the end of his loan spell at Dean Court on New Year's Day.

And although Bond is still hoping to re-sign him, the tricky Ivorian is attracting attention from other clubs, with Cherries' relegation rivals Crewe believed to be among them.

Bond yesterday discussed the situation with Leicester chairman Milan Mandaric and says he is awaiting further developments.

"I'm hoping to keep Max and I'm working on it," said Bond following yesterday's training session. "I think there has been a bit of interest in Max because he did well for us but I'm trying to resolve it.

"I had a conversation with Milan this morning and he has always been really helpful and I'm hoping he will continue to be.

"I would like to resolve it as soon as possible but it's out of my hands."

Bond is expected to name at least one youth team player among his substitutes for tomorrow's trip to fellow League One strugglers Cheltenham Town.

His squad has been decimated by the departure of no fewer than six loan players, while Jo Tessem has been the only addition.

Bond, who again confirmed that he had not received offers for any of his players, added: "While I haven't got the numbers, if players can play well and hold their form and we can steer clear of injuries then I will have to run with what I've got.

"If anything happens, I'll deal with it and if somebody goes they would have to be replaced, it's as simple as that."