FANS' favourite Tommy Elphick this afternoon thanked the Cherries faithful after winning the prestigious Daily Echo/Micky Cave Trophy.

The Dean Court captain expressed his gratitude after being selected by Echo readers as the supporters' player of the season.

Elphick claimed 29 per cent of the votes to fend off competition from striker Brett Pitman and right-back Simon Francis for the historic award, which was won by Marc Pugh last term.

A summer signing from Brighton, the centre-half has made 37 appearances and has emerged as an inspirational figure in Eddie Howe's team.

Elphick's stock could rise further if he manages to join an elite band of Cherries players by skippering the club to promotion.

Speaking to the Daily Echo after landing the gong, Elphick said: “It is an amazing feeling.

“With the season we have had, especially since the turnaround under the gaffer, it could have been any one of 10 or 12 lads. I am just picking up the trophy on behalf of the players.

“From a personal point of view, to be recognised by the fans is brilliant and I thank the supporters for the award.”

VOTE STATISTICS

Tommy Elphick - 29%

Brett Pitman - 18%

Simon Francis - 18%

Harry Arter - 12%

Charlie Daniels - 11%

Eunan O'Kane - 5%

Steve Cook - 4%

Others - 3%