Cherries boss Eddie Howe is tipping inspirational skipper Jason Pearce to become one of the club’s modern day defensive greats.

Pearce has been a cornerstone of the Cherries rearguard under Howe’s stewardship and is approaching his first anniversary as team captain.

The 23-year-old, signed from Portsmouth by Kevin Bond in 2007, has played a key role in Cherries’ revival and has been ever present in their impressive showing in League One this season.

He was hailed as “the best defender I have played against” by Swindon’s former Poole Town striker Charlie Austin following Cherries’ win at the County Ground six days ago.

Pearce will be looking to enhance his burgeoning reputation when he goes toe to toe with Plymouth Argyle hotshot Bradley Wright-Phillips at Dean Court today (3pm).

Howe told the Daily Echo: “Jason has all the hallmarks of being a top-class centre-half. He is developing and improving all the time and has made big strides in the past year.

“His attitude is what sets him apart. He is never happy with his game and always wants more. He is a special lad to have around the place and we are delighted with his progress. I am sure he will only continue to improve and get better.”

Howe, himself one of Cherries’ finest central defenders of recent times, believes comparisons with the likes of John ‘Willo’ Williams, Shaun Teale or Ian Cox are unfair.

“It’s always difficult to compare people from different eras,” said Howe. “Jason has got special attributes. He is very brave, a fierce competitor and a winner. They are great hallmarks for any defender.

“He thrives on the added responsibility of being captain and is a role model to the other players.”

• The Cherries youth match against Cheltenham, which was postponed on December 18, will now be played at Chapel Gate on Saturday, January 22, kick-off 11am.

• Cherries’ trip to Bristol Rovers will be played at the Memorial Ground on Tuesday, February 15 (7.45pm). Another rearranged game, at home against Sheffield Wednesday, has been set for Tuesday, February 22 (7.45pm).