CHERRIES boss Gary O’Neil believes the tight race in the Daily Echo/Micky Cave AFC Bournemouth player of the year vote reflects how this season has been a “real team effort” from his squad.

Voting has been open for the best part of a week, with every eligible member of the Cherries squad receiving at least one vote.

With 24 hours to go, it is extremely close among multiple different frontrunners.

Before voting started midfield lynchpin Jefferson Lerma, captain Neto, and joint-top goalscorer Phil Billing were predicted to be in contention, whilst talisman Dom Solanke and summer signing Marcus Tavernier have also received plaudits this campaign.

Even defenders Marcos Senesi and Chris Mepham have been listed as fans’ standout performers on social media, highlighting the variety in opinions.

Asked if the even spread of votes reflected how his side’s survival had been secured by a joint effort, O’Neil told the Daily Echo: “I think everybody in the group has played a huge part in it.

“The togetherness, the attitude, the approach to when we've had a good result.

“The approach to when we've had a bad result.

“There have been some standout performances of course from individuals.

“I think Tav (Marcus Tavernier) obviously coming on at home to Fulham, huge performance from him.

“Some of his other performances as well before he picked up his injury.

“Phil (Billing) has had some incredible performances, both down in sort of the double pivot role and up as a ten, shown that he can do both.

“Dom (Solanke) has had some real top performances. Neto, Marcos Senesi. There'll be loads.

“It's been a real team, group effort this year and maybe the voting around the player of the season sort of reflects that.

“There’s maybe an appreciation from outside, of everyone and the part that everyone has played.”

CLICK HERE TO CAST YOUR VOTE

Voting for the Daily Echo/Micky Cave AFC Bournemouth player of the year closes at 1pm on Wednesday, May 17.