KEVIN Bond has predicted that there will be some "major changes" to the Cherries squad this summer.

The Cherries boss, who will discuss his own future with the club's new owners Jeff Mostyn and Steve Sly next week, has already worked out which players he will be trying to keep - and which he will be showing the door - ahead of the summer contract negotiations.

And Bond is planning a significant revamp to his current playing staff.

Bond, who is believed to have 14 players out of contract at the end of the season, told the Daily Echo: "I've pretty much got a firm idea on the players I'd be looking to offer contracts to.

"I've formed an opinion on what I'd like to go forward with next season. I'd like to be able to put together a side that will help us push on next season.

"I know there will be some major changes, but I don't know how many just yet. There will be a few new faces coming in - there certainly needs to be.

"This team only just avoided relegation last season and we're down there battling again this time.

"You don't need to a be a genius to work out that the squad was on a bit of a downward trend when I came here and we need to improve it."

Over the final eight games of the campaign, starting with Saturday's League One clash at home to Tranmere, Bond believes that there are players playing for their futures.

He said: "There are one or two players who I didn't rate when I first came here, but there are some who have made me change my mind.

"And there is still time for others to make me change my mind and convince me that they should be a part of things next season. It is up to them."

Although Bond himself is out of contract in the summer, he said: "My own contract has been the farthest thing from my mind and I haven't had a chance to sit down with Jeff or Steve and talk about anything as yet. I've just got on with my job.

"Over the coming days and weeks, I'm sure we will have plenty of conversations because there is plenty to talk about."