ASSISTANT boss Jason Tindall insists tomorrow's friendly with West Ham (3pm) forms a vital part of Cherries' pre-season preparations.

While the fixture is in honour of Stephen Purches's long service to the Dean Court outfit, Tindall does not want to see anyone taking their foot off the gas as Cherries build for life in the Championship.

Cherries will field a full team but will take care over selecting players carrying injuries. Matt Ritchie, Eunan O'Kane, Marc Pugh, Ryan Allsop and Richard Hughes have all been carrying knocks and will be assessed before being considered.

Tindall told the Daily Echo: “It is Purch's day but it is also a serious game for us and an important part of our pre-season schedule.

“Everyone we have fit and available will be involved but we don't want to put anyone at risk. We will be sensible and leave players out if they are not 100 per cent.

On his good friend Purches, Tindall added: “Purch will play his part and it will be a special day for him.

“He is a gentleman and a true professional and it is fitting that the game is against West Ham, the place where it all started for him.

“It will be a really nice occasion and I am absolutely delighted for him personally because we have built up a close friendship over the years.”