WARREN Cummings says he is determined to reclaim his crown as Cherries’ first-choice left-back – otherwise he would have quit Dean Court.

Cummings will today return for the start of pre-season training with the rest of Eddie Howe’s squad after finalising terms on a new one-year contract.

The Scotsman, who was entitled to an extension after triggering an appearance-related clause in his previous deal, knows his ninth year with the club could also be one of his most challenging.

Cummings played a key role in Cherries’ promotion last season before a needless sending off at Aldershot in January saw him lose his place to loan star Rhoys Wiggins.

And although Cummings will start Cherries’ warm-up campaign as the only recognised left-back on the books, he knows boss Howe is likely to be on the search for reinforcements.

New recruit Steve Purches can also operate on the left-hand side of defence, while Howe seems certain to pull out all the stops in an attempt to bring back Wiggins ahead of the new season.

Cummings told the Daily Echo: “At some point, I’m sure there will be more than one left-back at the club. But I feel as though I have still got a lot to offer, otherwise I would have gone elsewhere.

“As far as I was concerned, there was no decision to make regarding the contract. Everything was sorted a while ago but it wasn’t signed until this week because I had been on holiday.

“I’ve got my professional pride and I want to play. If I didn’t think I was good enough, I wouldn’t have stayed.

“Regardless of whether or not someone else comes in, I know what my capabilities are and still feel I can have an effect on the team. I’m not selfish but I want to play. It’s not about me, it’s about what’s best for the team and having more than one player for each position is definitely best for the team.”

Cummings, who is 21st in Cherries’ list of all-time league appearance-makers, has played the majority of his 230 games in the third flight. He has also helped the club to two promotions since signing permanently from Chelsea in 2003.

He added: “League One doesn’t hold any fears. There will be a difference but I don’t think it’s a massive jump from League Two.

“I’ve played a lot of games in League One and trust my ability. The important thing for me is to retain peak fitness, particularly due to my previous injuries. It is going to be down to me to be as fit as I can and to look after myself to show I can be a big part of the team. We’ve got an exciting team and I want to be part of it. I enjoy playing here, I’ve got a good relationship with the fans and would like that to continue.”