BEN Pearson is pleased his decision to move to Cherries has paid off, as he prepares for a first crack at the Premier League.

The 27-year-old came through the youth ranks at Manchester United, but never featured for the first team before leaving to join Preston North End in 2016.

A five-year stay in Lancashire followed, where Pearson became a staple of the Lilywhites side, featuring 165 times, before Cherries came calling in January 2021.

Pearson has had to be patient at times to wait for his chance, but did make 23 Championship appearances under Scott Parker this season, and was on the pitch to help the club clinch promotion against Nottingham Forest.

“I left United nearly seven years ago with the aim of climbing back up the ladder and I’ve managed to do that," Pearson told Cherries' website.

“Promotion to the Premier League is an unbelievable achievement.

“It’s every lad’s dream and that’s the reason I moved clubs 18 months ago, so it’s all been worthwhile.

“I wanted to move to a club that I felt had the ambition to get promoted. Now that’s happened, it’s justified and I can be happy with my decision.

“The management have been fantastic and the players have been brilliant. It’s thoroughly deserved. Everyone has played their part and it’s a joy to play in this team.

“I’ve enjoyed being a part of it. When I’ve played, I think I’ve done well. Lew Cook played in that position and has been unbelievable. You’ve just got to watch and admire when someone is playing football like that.

“The team has been up and down but we didn’t have a consistently bad run which was pleasing. I’ve been happy with my contribution and all the lads have been brilliant.”

Despite his lack of starts this season, Pearson believes he can have an impact in the top flight next term.

"I think the Premier League will probably suit me,” he said.

“We will probably be slightly more defensive and might be on the back foot in some games.

“I want to enjoy the next couple of weeks and take in the moment before coming back firing for pre-season.

“I’ve got to cement myself as to where I want to get to with Bournemouth, so I’ll do that over the off-season and then look forward to the Premier League."