CHERRIES shot-stopper Mark Travers believes it has been “class” to enjoy success with fellow academy graduates.

Jordan Zemura, Jaidon Anthony and Travers all stepped up to become first-team regulars under Scott Parker, with the trio making over 30 appearances each as Cherries clinched a return to the Premier League.

Boss Parker has frequently voiced his praise for the performances of his youngsters, also singling out Travers’ fellow countryman Gavin Kilkenny for his contributions earlier on in the campaign.

Travers missed only one league game, recording 20 clean sheets in order to clinch the division’s golden glove award.

The Irishman’s performances were recognised by Daily Echo readers, who named the former Shamrock Rovers custodian the Daily Echo / Micky Cave AFC Bournemouth Player of the Year.

Whilst Travers’ potential and talent has long been noticed by those at Cherries, few would have predicted that the 22-year-old would see out the season as first-choice for the campaign.

Cherries had targeted Newcastle goalkeeper Freddie Woodman from the beginning of the campaign, and whilst an injury crisis Tyneside prevented the move from materialising in the summer, the Dorset club finally got their man in January.

However, despite Woodman’s pedigree – he had won the golden glove award for the Championship the season prior – Travers rallied to the challenge, keeping the number one shirt.

When asked by the Daily Echo if achieving promotion with players he come up through the ranks meant something more, Travers responded: “Yeah, definitely.

“I think it's class for them as well.

“They've been unbelievable. JZ (Jordan Zemura), Jaidon (Anthony), Gavin (Kilkenny) as well, youngsters from the academy, so it's great to be involved with them.

“To come up with them and share the experience with them, it's great.

“And obviously, Lloydy (Lloyd Kelly) as well, our captain, he’s really young.

“We had a mixture of youth and experience this year and it was great to have that mix.”

Travers is likely to be involved when Ireland return to international action in June. The Emerald Isle face Armenia, Ukraine and Scotland in their UEFA Nationals League fixtures.