REJUVENATED Warren Cummings says the arrival of new boss Jimmy Quinn has given Cherries a licence to express themselves.

And he also believes the reason for the vast improvement in performances since the departure of Kevin Bond is down to the players being "on trial again".

Cummings, the longest-serving member of the squad, helped Cherries stop the rot when they chalked up a 1-1 draw at League Two rivals Notts County on Saturday.

The Scotsman told the Daily Echo: "Things change very quickly in football and things have certainly changed very quickly for this football club recently. It's something the players have got to take on board and do our very best to impress the new manager.

"It's as if everyone is on trial again and, in all honesty, there is probably a better mood in the camp as well. Without taking anything away from the people who were here before, things seem to be more positive and there is a better spirit.

"It's probably always the case when a new manager comes in, but everyone seems a bit more bubbly. I'm enjoying myself and I've especially enjoyed the past couple of games. I've got forward a lot more like I used to.

"I think a lot of the players have said they feel a little bit freer in what they're allowed to do and with what has been asked of them. I think it showed on Tuesday and also in spells against Notts County that the lads are expressing themselves a bit more."

Cummings added: "Some of the off-the-pitch stuff that has gone on here has been unbelievable for a long time. This club needs stability and hopefully now we'll get it.

"Whether it's a management change, a change in the board room or administration, the supporters and the people who work for the club have had a lot to deal with.

"It would be great if we could all move forward together and concentrate, first and foremost, on keeping our league status. Anything above that this season would be a bonus."

Quinn took his place in the dugout for the first time and looked on as Brett Pitman's goal cancelled out Jamie Forrester's opener to earn Cherries a share of the spoils.

"It wasn't pretty at times," said Quinn. "But sometimes you get games away from home when you have to grind out a result, which we did. They put us under a lot of pressure but we stood firm and defended well.

"When you look at everything that's happened this week, it's a lot for the players to deal with. They are still getting used to me and although there is a bit of apprehension there, they are settling down.

"I'm pretty consistent with what I do so hopefully they will quickly gain a bit of confidence in me. I'm here to help them but the onus is on hard work and winning and the bottom line is that we've got to win games."