LEE Bradbury is keen to emulate his boss Eddie Howe in the management game – but only after he’s ended his playing career with a flourish.

Cherries veteran Bradbury earned a further 12 months at Dean Court when he triggered an appearance-related clause in his deal.

The former Manchester City star’s versatility is again likely to prove a big bonus for Cherries chief Howe when the League Two season gets under way in August.

But while Bradbury is quick to stress he still has a few years left in the tank as a player, his focus has also turned to coaching.

“It’s definitely something I want to do and it would be a shame to walk away after so long playing and not giving anything back,” he admitted.

“But I feel fine and fit and better now than I ever have, both mentally and physically.

“I’ve still got a lot to give and I’ll keep playing until the day I’ve had enough.”

The 33-year-old, who has enjoyed a distinguished career since starting out at Portsmouth in 1995, scored six goals in 41 appearances as Cherries avoided relegation last season.

And he wants to continue in the game when he retires, with the aim of making the natural transition into coaching and management, a path he has already started to tread.

“I started a soccer school in Fareham which I run weekly for different age groups and I’ve just done a soccer school on the Isle of Wight and Guernsey,” he revealed.

“Management and coaching is something I want to move into so I’m getting into it now.

“But it’s difficult when you’re playing at the same time and I’m hoping to get involved with the academy at Bournemouth next season.

“It’s definitely something that interests me but it’s difficult to get a chance as a young coach.”

Bradbury holds the Football Association’s coaching badges for level one, two and three, while he intends to get his UEFA A Licence next year.