Source: Bournemouth_Echo
Cherries: Howe putting no pressure on non-league signings
EDDIE Howe knows only time will tell whether he has unearthed a pair of gems in Mitchell Nelson and Harry Arter but insists they will be given every opportunity to sparkle with Cherries.[LNB] Defender Nelson and midfielder Arter have been plucked from the non-league ranks by Howe as the Cherries boss continues to mould his squad for the forthcoming season.[LNB] Nelson, 20, a former Colchester trainee, arrived from Ryman League Premier Division outfit Tooting & Mitcham and has signed a three-year contract, while Arter, also 20, turned out for Woking in Conference South last season and has penned an initial two-year deal.[LNB] Howe and assistant Jason Tindall have an impressive track record for discovering talent outside of the Football League, with Liam Feeney and Anton Robinson both glowing examples.[LNB] Signed from Salisbury and Weymouth, respectively, the duo have both played starring roles in Cherries' revival under Howe and Tindall since they took the reins 18 months ago.[LNB] Mark Molesley, who was on the verge of leaving Dean Court before Howe took charge, is another case in point, while Howe was first to spot the potential of former Poole Town striker Charlie Austin, who slipped the net due to Cherries' transfer embargo and went on to blossom with Swindon.[LNB] Howe told the Daily Echo: Whether Mitchell and Harry go on to achieve what Charlie has done, who knows[LNB] We are not going to put any pressure on them but we believe in them both. We believe they have not only got the right attributes, but also the right character and attitude as well, which is so important, and they are both hungry.[LNB] It remains to be seen how they do when they come in. But we will give them every opportunity during pre-season to stake a claim, as we will with everybody else in the squad. They are both young and we see them as players for the long term. With the right coaching and guidance and time spent working on their respective games, we hope they will do well.[LNB] The step can be taken but every player is different and we have to understand that. These lads are making a big step and it may take them a little time to adjust. But we believe they can and will and will give them every chance to be successful.[LNB] Howe added: With so many players around and a lot of foreign players coming in at the top level, youngsters are finding themselves working their way back up and both these lads have done that.[LNB] In some senses, I think it does them the world of good. They learn to appreciate the life of a professional footballer and it gives them a hunger and desire that maybe some players who have spent their careers with professional clubs don't have. I think it was a really good experience for them.[LNB] ¢ Chairman Eddie Mitchell last night confirmed Cherries season ticket sales had topped 2,000.[LNB] But the Dean Court chief is hoping to at least break the club record of 2,700.[LNB] A season ticket application form is available via the club website afcb.co.uk.[LNB]
