BOSS Eddie Howe is hoping Anton Robinson will continue to stay the course after describing Cherries’ endurance man as a “real team player”.

Robinson, who played a starring role in Cherries’ escape from relegation last season, has again been one of the leading lights as Howe’s men have taken League Two by storm.

The unassuming 23-year-old has turned in a series of impressive displays and has been a pivotal figure in Cherries’ remarkable revival under Howe.

Since being plucked from non-league Weymouth in January, Robinson has displayed his versatility by lining up in a number of different positions.

And he also has an exemplary attendance record, having sat out just one game when he was rested for Cherries’ trip to Morecambe on the final day of last season.

Since making his debut as a 16th-minute substitute for Joel Ward against Shrewsbury in February, Robinson has missed only 68 minutes of his 36 league and cup appearances for the club.

“Anton is a dedicated professional,” said Howe, who snapped him up for a nominal fee from the Terras. “He trains well every day and is very consistent with his training.

“His attitude is such that, whatever he does, he wants to complete everything to the best of his ability and that is certainly reflected in his performances.

“You need players like Anton in your squad who you can rely on. He is certainly one you tend not to worry about because he just gets on with his job in an uncomplicated manner and in the right way.”

Robinson, who dropped into non-league following his release by Millwall in 2005, has seized his second chance in the pro ranks with both hands.

“He has made the transition look easy,” said Howe. “When he first came in, he was playing right-back quite regularly so to make the transition in a position that’s not natural to you is even more of an accomplishment.

“He has spent most of this season in the middle of the park and has been excellent. His performances have been of a high standard week in, week out. He’s the type of character you can play anywhere because it won’t fluster him.

“He just gets his head down and does his best for the team. We all appreciate him and I’m sure the supporters do as well. He’s a dedicated professional who will get on with the job given to him.

“In terms of his versatility and attitude, I would compare him with Stephen Purches who was a similar type. He always wanted to do well and was always very consistent and Anton is from the same mould.”