CHERRIES loan star Jem Karacan has described making his FA Cup debut for the Dorset club as "an honour" ahead of tomorrow's arduous first round trip to Barrow.

And the Reading rookie, who is on a one-month loan from the Premier League outfit, had even better news for the Dean Court faithful - he wants to extend his stay with the League One club.

Since making his Cherries debut against Millwall, Karacan has fast made a name for himself and cemented his place as a fans' favourite.

His all-action displays in the centre of midfield have become a trademark and have been a major fillip for Kevin Bond's side in recent weeks.

The 18-year-old's wonder-goal against Leeds United on Tuesday night will live long in the memory and showed he is far more than just an energetic, hard grafter in the middle of the park.

Karacan, a Turkish youth international, was "disappointed" with the result against the Yorkshire giants because victory was the "most important" thing.

But, with his focus now shifted to tomorrow's FA Cup tie, he is excited at the prospect of making his debut in what he labelled the "best domestic competition in the world".

"It's my first game in the cup. Every game is as important as the other, it's a chance to progress and we'll focus on that now," Karacan told the Daily Echo.

"I grew up watching it and heroes come through every year.

"It's an honour to play in the cup for Bournemouth."

When asked to recall his favourite cup moment, the livewire midfielder mentioned Michael Owen's winning goal for Liverpool against Arsenal.

But the Royals loanee revealed he looks forward to watching the FA Cup every season because each year has a "different twist".

Despite displaying all the attributes sought in top modern-day midfielders - high energy levels, good passing skills, a willingness to get stuck in and an eye for goal - Cherries fans will be hoping Karacan remains in English football's third tier for the time being.

This is an idea that also appeals to the youngster, who is relishing the opportunity to get first-team matches under his belt," he said.

"I've come here on loan to get first team experience and I've loved every minute down here.

"I've got a lot to thank Kevin Bond and Bournemouth for.

"I hope to extend the loan and go back to Reading better, but Bournemouth's the priority at the moment.

"I'd love to stay for another month. The decision is in the hands of the gaffer and chairman."

Karacan was the first of a four-man contingent to arrive at Dean Court from the Berkshire club and defender Alex Pearce, winger James Henry and left-back Scott Golbourne have all since followed in his footsteps.

Golbourne is also allowed to play against Barrow, but Reading do not want Pearce and Henry to be cup-tied.