Cherries legend Steve Fletcher has revealed his desire to continue playing.

The Dean Court star, who turns 39 this summer, combines his playing duties with the role of assistant boss to Lee Bradbury.

But despite his work on the managerial front, the veteran targetman has no plans to hang up his boots and is determined to prolong his distinguished career.

Fletcher, Cherries’ record appearance-maker, enjoyed a productive campaign and remains keen to carry on next term.

Asked whether he saw himself as part of the playing squad for next season, Fletcher said: “I hope so, unless Lee tells me something different!

“I think I have had a good season, as good as any of late. I have been more of an impact player but I would love to do the same again. I feel fit, I keep myself in shape and I keep myself right.”

Fletcher was an unused substitute when Cherries’ promotion hopes ended in a penalty shoot-out defeat at Huddersfield.

Reflecting on the Galpharm Stadium classic, Fletcher added: “The first thing that comes to mind is pride. I’m so proud of what we have done as a team and where we have come from.

“Going back two-and-a-half years to when I came back to the club, what the majority of those boys have been through is more than you usually get in a whole career. Proud is the only word I can use to describe how I feel, but I’m absolutely deflated.

“The one thing missing from my CV is playing in the Championship and I thought this was going to be it. I kept looking up to the Gods and praying, but it just wasn’t to be.”