Source: Bournemouth_Echo
Cherries: Fletch wants to repeat impressive appearance tally
SIDELINED Steve Fletcher has vowed to pull out all the stops in a bid to continue his proud fitness record next season.[LNB] The veteran targetman, who proved his worth by appearing in 45 of Cherries' 46 league matches last term, has had his pre-season preparations disrupted by a heel problem.[LNB] He hobbled off during the friendly against Hamworthy Recreation on Tuesday and missed the clash at Poole Town the following night.[LNB] Fletcher, 38 later this month, is resting as a precaution so is likely to sit out tomorrow's match against Europa League runners-up Fulham at Dean Court (3pm).[LNB] But despite admitting he will have to tread carefully because of the problem with his left foot, Cherries' record appearance-maker is hoping the injury is not serious and is desperate to be raring to go for the big kick-off at Charlton Athletic next month.[LNB] He told the Echo: I will be doing everything in my power to get fit in the next week, never mind in three weeks when the season starts.[LNB] I've got a fantastic physio here and management who make sure the boys are getting the best treatment possible at the club.[LNB] One thing is for sure, I'll be giving myself every opportunity to get it right in the next few days, but sensibly and not doing anything stupid to rush it.[LNB] My aim, like everybody's, is to be fit for the start of the season.[LNB] I was on the pitch for 45 out of 46 games last season so if I could get anywhere near that, people would probably say it's a miracle![LNB] But maybe people were saying that last season. I defied the odds, not just to myself but probably to the manager as well, by being involved as much as I was. That will be my aim again this season.[LNB] Discussing the heel injury which is being monitored on a day-to-day basis, Fletcher added: I don't think it's anything major but, whether you're my age or a young pup it doesn't matter, when you've got a sore spot the obvious thing is to keep off it.[LNB] As frustrating as that is in pre-season, it's the right thing to do.[LNB] Meanwhile, the Steve Fletcher Stand at Dean Court will be sponsored by the club's official nutritional supplement provider USANA Health Sciences for the 2010-11 season. Cherries' commercial director Rob Mitchell confirmed the deal included a financial commitment and the supply of products to the players over the next year.[LNB]
