STRIKER Jeff Goulding has targeted a regular starting place and a 15-goal haul after deciding to stay with Cherries.

The talented forward is poised to sign a new one-year contract after agreeing fresh terms with the club.

Signed by Kevin Bond last August, Goulding enjoyed mixed fortunes in his opening campaign with Cherries.

He made 30 appearances but often had to settle for a place among the substitutes, especially after Cherries re-signed veteran targetman Steve Fletcher.

However, two goals and a brilliant performance against Bradford City in March showed what the 25-year-old striker is all about.

And he is focused on firstly getting in the team – and then on the scoresheet – on a regular basis when the new season gets under way.

The former non-league star, who has previously played for the likes of Hayes and Fisher Athletic, told the Echo: “I would love to cement a regular spot in the team and crack on from there. My main aim is to play regularly.”

When asked if he had set himself a goal target, Goulding added: “Fifteen goals – I would hope to get that.

“It’s my second season and I need to get more goals and that would be a good target to start with.”

Meanwhile, Cherries manager Eddie Howe has given his verdict on the club’s schedule for next season.

Howe’s men have been handed an extremely difficult start at Bury on August 8, followed by clashes against some strong opposition during the opening month.

Howe said: “The way it’s come out is disappointing because we’ve got an away game on the first day of the season and it’s such a long way to go as well.

“We do seem to have quite a difficult start but we still go in with optimism.

“We will be focused on doing well but we’re not setting any targets or saying what we’re going to achieve.”

Cherries are priced at 14-1 or 16-1 with most bookmakers to win the Coca-Cola League Two title, while Rotherham are the favourites.

For a full list of Cherries' fixtures, see today's Daily Echo.