FORMER Cherries skipper Mark Morris has underlined the vital effect off-field stability can have on the club’s players.

Centre-half Morris was an important figure for Cherries from 1991-96, playing more than 200 games in a popular spell.

The ex-captain recalled how, during his time there, financial issues hovered over Dean Court, something that continues to prove problematic for Cherries and many other outfits in the lower divisions.

But as chairman Eddie Mitchell helped steady the ship at boardroom level last term, manager Eddie Howe guided Cherries to an unlikely promotion from League Two.

And Morris, 47, believes solid foundations in the corridors of power are “massively” important.

He told the Echo: “There’s been a money-situation cloud over the football club ever since I was a player and maybe even before that. It doesn’t help.

“Stability is the main thing. I don’t think they’ve got to pull up any trees next season.

“For me, they’ve just got to have a good season and a bit of stability inside the football club for two or three years and, hopefully, build up their financial situation. Then they can maybe look to push on again.

“It’s only a short time ago the club was on the precipice of going out of the league, so I think it’s got to be a situation where it’s just slowly but surely.

“I had great times down there and I watch their results all the time. I normally get down there about seven or eight times a year, but unfortunately last season I just didn’t have time because I was busy with my business.

“But I hope they push on and I’m pleased for all concerned.”

Signed by Harry Redknapp in July 1991, Morris went on to become player of the season in 1992-93 and he scored eight goals in 194 league games.

The former Wimbledon star, who still lives locally, played in League One’s equivalent throughout his time with Cherries.

And looking ahead to next season in that division, Morris added: “I think what it’s all about is stability for the |football club for a few years and then to maybe go on to the next stage.

“I think they will do quite well next year. I don’t think they’ll struggle. They’ve got some good players.

“I think the most important thing is the players keep improving – Eddie Howe has done a good job – and the club gets itself on a sound footing for the future.”