PAUL Baker is eager to ensure that off-field events do not overshadow the fine work being done on the pitch by Eddie Howe and his players.

Baker has spent the past week locked in talks in a bid to broker a deal for new investment in the League Two club.

But he took some time away from the negotiating table to watch Cherries defeat Aldershot Town on Tuesday night.

And the 2-0 result, coupled with the fine display from Howe’s men and enthusiastic support from the terraces, earned glowing praise from Baker.

He told the Echo: “I went to Tuesday’s match and the spirit and performance in testing conditions were fantastic.

“The fans and everyone else played a massive part and it was a huge lift for the club to get out of the relegation zone.

“Everyone played a part and some of the performances I saw from the players were simply fantastic.

“I thought Danny Hollands and Warren Cummings, in particular, were top notch.”

Baker, who has made no secret of his desire to sell his share in the club, was yesterday hoping that some sort of deal could be concluded ahead of this afternoon’s visit of Port Vale to Dorset.

“I want the future of the club decided prior to the game,” he said.

“I want the players to concentrate on continuing to do such a fantastic job.

“It will be a difficult game against Port Vale and they won’t come here and lie down. Every battle needs to be won.

“If the players continue to play the part they are playing, I’m sure the Dean Court atmosphere will carry them over the finishing line.”