STÉPHANE Zubar can forget his Plymouth problems to play a starring role for Cherries.

That is the view of former Argyle boss Peter Reid – the man who handed the defender his first chance in English football.

Ex-international midfielder Reid is a big fan of Zubar after the 24-year-old did a fine job for him in difficult circumstances at Home Park.

Zubar, who had been a free agent since leaving the League Two crisis club last month, officially joined Cherries yesterday when he signed a deal until the end of the season.

The versatile player, whose contract includes an option for a further year, had been on trial at Seward Stadium and impressed for Cherries’ reserves on Tuesday.

He is set to ease Lee Bradbury’s injury worries by making his debut in the League One home clash against Hartlepool United tomorrow (3pm).

And speaking to the Daily Echo yesterday, former mentor Reid gave the move the thumbs-up. He said: “He did terrifically well for me last season and I was desperate for him to sign.

“Because of the situation at Plymouth when I was manager, with regards being paid, the lad had forgone a lot of money in Romania and felt he just couldn’t do it any more.

“We agreed by mutual consent to let him go, but it was a blow for me because he is a good character and he is a good player.

“I am delighted he has got a football club like Bournemouth where he can, hopefully, get settled in his mind – because it was affecting him – and he can just concentrate on playing good football.”

Cherries boss Bradbury had made no secret of his desire to bolster his defensive options, but had cooled his interest in one-time target Tom Naylor earlier this week after Mansfield Town rejected a bid.

With Cherries captain Adam Barrett doubtful for the visit of Pools, Zubar’s arrival comes as a timely boost for the Dorset club.

And Reid is backing Zubar, who made 33 league appearances for Plymouth after a two-year spell in Romania, to prove his worth with Cherries.

The ex-Sunderland manager added: “He is a strong boy. With a clear mind, he can concentrate on football.

“He has got a bit of pace about him so I think he will do a good job for Bournemouth.

“He is a good athlete but he is a good character as well. It is a great opportunity for him.

“He played everywhere for me, through the circumstances. He can play as a right-back or centre-half – no problem.”

• Cherries last night further bolstered their squad with the loan signing of Canadian international Jaime Peters from Ipswich Town.

The 24-year-old winger has joined the Dorset club on an initial one-month loan deal.