DEVELOPMENT squad captain Ben Greenwood insists he is “proud” of Cherries’ efforts in the Premier League Cup this year, despite an early exit.

Cherries made a brilliant start to the campaign, winning each of their first two matches.

That eventually set up three separate shots at qualification for the knockout stages, but the last of those disappeared with a 3-1 loss at QPR on Friday.

Cherries end the campaign bottom of the group with six points. Derby County progressed on 11, while Brighton and QPR both picked up eight points, the latter progressing on goal difference.

Speaking to Cherries’ website, defender Greenwood said: “It’s a great competition for us and it’s a competition that we want to go far into, but this year we’ve just missed out again.

“Over the course of the six games, I think we’ve held our own in a group that’s tough.

“The frustrating thing is just that we’ve had three chances to get through, but that’s how football goes sometimes.

“It’s been an enjoyable campaign even though we’re gutted that we haven’t gone further.”

He added: “One big highlight has been being captain for all of the games I’ve played in.

“I’m proud of what I’ve done and I’m proud of what the boys have done this year.

“We’ve got a lot to look forward to with this group of players.”