EMILIANO Marcondes described victory in the play-off final with Brentford as "the best day of my career and maybe also my life", but insisted: "Now it is time to move on."

The 26-year-old scored as the Bees defeated Swansea City 2-0 at Wembley to clinch promotion to the Premier League.

The Dane was also named man-of-the-match for his performance in the final, but that proved to be his 97th and final game for Brentford.

Marcondes was released upon the expiry of his contract, with Cherries at the weekend moving in to swoop to sign him on a free transfer.

And the midfielder admits it was tough to be let go by the Bees.

Speaking before sealing his move to Cherries, Marcondes told Sky Sports: "It (the play-off final) was 100 per cent the best day of my career and maybe also my life.

"To score, win and be named man of the match in my last game for Brentford. I was so happy that I could not stop smiling for weeks. It still makes me smile just to think about it."

He added: "I was truly disappointed that my contract was not renewed.

"I had a great time in Brentford, I make lots of friends and I had a good connection with the fans. But that is football. Now it is time to move on and I wish Brentford the best of luck."

Despite scoring against Swansea at Wembley, Marcondes was far from prolific in front of goal during his time at Brentford.

Following his move from FC Nordsjaelland in 2017, the Hvidovre-born star scored just seven times for the west London outfit.

But he feels he can have more of an impact higher up the pitch.

"The position that I played at Brentford was not the optimal one for me," he said.

"I played as an 8 and I want to play as a 10 instead.

"I never really got into those positions that I really wanted to be in and where I think I am best. It made me realise that even more now.

"I am really excited about a new challenge at a new club.

"My goal since I came to England was to play in the Premier League. By winning promotion with Brentford, I feel like I have kind of done it but not really.

"So I feel like I need to do one more thing in England before I leave.

"I am just really excited for the future."