STRIKER Steve Lovell extended his stay at Dean Court for at least another season and then revealed he felt Cherries were “going places”.

Lovell today penned a one-year deal with a 12-month option before telling the Daily Echo his decision to re-sign had been an “easy” one.

The 30-year-old, who rejoined Cherries for a second spell at the start of this season, was restricted by an ankle injury to just nine appearances.

However, after returning at the start of last month, Lovell played a key role in helping Cherries secure a place in the League One play-offs and netted twice – including one of the goals of the season – during the semi-final, second leg at Huddersfield.

Speaking to the club’s official website, boss Lee Bradbury described as a “big boost” Lovell’s decision to commit himself to Cherries.

Bradbury, who played alongside Lovell at Portsmouth, said: “In the last few games, Steve started to show what he was about. He got back his sharpness, fitness and confidence and showed what he was capable of. Having played with Steve, I know what a good player he is and that was the reason I was very keen to keep him here. It is a big boost.

“It was a big decision for Steve because his fiancé is in Scotland. But he has family members in Bournemouth and to be at the club where he started his career is a big draw for him. He knows he is going to be involved week in, week out and we know that, if we can get all our strikers fit, we will be spoilt for choice.

“It is going to be a big season for Steve because there will be a lot of expectation on his shoulders. But he is experienced enough to cope with that pressure.

“He is in his prime. He knows what the game is all about and has played at a high level. I think that showed in the play-offs. He handled the pressure excellently and did very well. I am confident that he can do well.”

Bradbury, meanwhile, is tomorrow due to meet with out-of-contract pair Ben Williamson and Mathieu Baudry, together with their respective representatives.

Frenchman Baudry, a free agent, has been weighing up Cherries’ offer of a 12-month contract, while striker Williamson has been proposed a one-year deal with a 12-month option.

It is understood Cherries would also need to agree a suitable compensation package with the Glenn Hoddle Academy before Williamson were to commit.

Bradbury confirmed contracts were currently being drawn up for goalkeeper Dan Thomas, defender Tim Stephenson and youth team graduates Paddy Hester, Dan Strugnell and Alex Parsons.

See tomorrow’s Daily Echo for more on this story and for our exclusive interview with Lovell.