GOALKEEPER Callan McKenna says he feels “lucky” to have been part of a pre-season away trip with Cherries’ development squad, adding: “It shows the direction that the club is going in.”

Alan Connell’s side visited southern Spain for five days last week, a trip which included two friendly matches.

Cherries were beaten 2-0 by Spanish second tier side FC Cartagena, before a 3-2 reverse against Nottingham Forest B.

Reflecting on the trip, 17-year-old McKenna, who joined Cherries from Queen’s Park in February, told afcb.co.uk: “I’m really lucky to come in and this be my first trip that I’ve experienced. I think it shows the direction that the club is going in.

“It’s been hard work but it’s been valuable and will stand us in good stead for the season.

“It’s definitely my hardest pre-season, especially with the heat here. I don’t think a Scottish guy has experienced this heat before!

“That’s been really tough. Back home in Bournemouth has been tough as well. We’re not done yet, there’s still work to do but it’s been really enjoyable.

“I have obviously got to know the boys over the past few months but there’s nothing like living with them, being away with them for the week.

“You get to know what everybody is like, what everybody’s personalities are like. It’s a good group of boys and I am really happy to be part of it.”

McKenna featured in the second half against Forest, coming on with the team already 3-0 down after a tough opening spell for fellow keeper Mack Allan.

Dominic Sadi scored twice to reduce the arrears.

“It took us too long to get going,” said McKenna.

“Even bits of the second half probably weren’t like we can be.

“But once we got going, we were dangerous and the boys showed really good character to get back into the game.

“We were unlucky not to get the third goal in the second half.”

Cherries take on Weymouth at Bob Lucas Stadium on Saturday (2pm).