CHAIRMAN Eddie Mitchell expressed his delight after Cherries landed a dream Carling Cup trip to Southampton.

Cherries were paired with their south coast rivals in the first-round draw, which was announced this morning. It means Eddie Howe’s men will visit St Mary’s in the week commencing August 9, while the teams will also meet in League One action following Cherries' promotion.

Mitchell described the draw as “fantastic”. He told the Echo: “I’ve had several phone calls. "It’s really given us a good taster to start the season with.”

SEE TOMORROW’S ECHO FOR THE FULL STORY AND FURTHER REACTION.