MIDFIELDER Ben Pearson insisted consistency would be key to earn Cherries their rewards in the Championship this season.

The 26-year-old, who has played 183 games in the English second tier, helped Cherries move to the summit of the division ahead of the October international break.

Oldham-born Pearson played 90 minutes in Saturday’s 2-1 victory over Sheffield United.

And the former Manchester United youngster insisted keeping up a high level over the course of the marathon campaign would be crucial.

He told the Daily Echo: “I think just consistency is going to be key this season.

“I think you’re going to lose games, you’re going to draw games, it’s not getting too down and not getting too high when you win.

“We’re in good form at the minute, we’ve got to keep that up. But when a setback does come, we’ve got to react well.”

Cherries are next in action in the division when they make the trip to Bristol City on Saturday, October 16.

Asked what the plan would be for the squad until then, the midfielder added: “A couple of days off probably next weekend to sort of recharge and just mentally take a break.

“Probably have a couple hard days training in between that and then all prep for Bristol.”