MARK Travers described former teammate Aaron Ramsdale as a "massive motivation" as the pair prepare to go head-to-head this weekend.

The duo formed a close bond during their time at Cherries, with Ramsdale arriving in 2017, before leaving to return to Sheffield United in 2020.

The pair first crossed paths as teenagers, when Travers went on trial with the Blades, whilst Ramsdale was in the Yorkshire club's academy.

Ramsdale, who is one year Travers's senior, got the nod over the Irishman under Eddie Howe at the start of the 2019-20 Premier League campaign.

Travers had to bide his time even after Ramsdale left, spending a season as understudy to Asmir Begovic, before his big breakthrough season under Scott Parker.

The Maynooth-born star played a key role in helping Cherries clinch promotion to the Premier League, following Ramsdale in winning the Daily Echo/Micky Cave player of the year award, as well as the Championship's golden glove.

The duo are now set to face off against each other for the first time on Saturday, as number ones for their respective clubs, with Ramsdale visiting Vitality Stadium with Arsenal (5.30pm).

Ramsdale, who still has a house in Bournemouth, came to watch Cherries last season and visited the dressing room after their 2-1 win over Stoke City.

Discussing his reunion with the England international this weekend, Travers told the Daily Echo: "It was great to see him down here supporting the lads (last season), when he didn’t have a game with Arsenal.

"It was a really nice moment to see him after the game and catch-up.

"A massive motivation to be honest for me and a lot of the young lads at Bournemouth, goalkeeper-wise. Because he’s doing so well at Arsenal and obviously to try and get there to his level would be great."

Discussing Ramsdale's rocky path to Arsenal number one and England international, having been relegated twice and spent time on loan at AFC Wimbledon, Travers said: "I think what he’s done so quickly is unbelievable.

"Mentally to come back from two relegations and to go into Arsenal and take that shirt was unbelievable for him and he’s flying at the minute.

"He’s in contention with England as well, so I’m only delighted for him and hopefully that continues for him."