Cherries: New contract for Cummings

07 January 2011 07:00
LONG-serving defender Warren Cummings has admitted his surprise and delight at earning a new contract with Cherries.[LNB] The Scotsman one of the club's top-20 all-time leading appearance-makers has been rewarded with an 18-month deal by manager Eddie Howe.[LNB] Cummings has played a key role in two promotions since joining Cherries on a permanent basis from Chelsea in 2003, having previously served the club on loan.[LNB] The 30-year-old, capped once by his country, enjoyed a long and fruitful run as the club's first-choice left-back until a needless red card at Aldershot last season cost him his place.[LNB] Since then, Cummings has been restricted to just two league starts and has played second fiddle to Rhoys Wiggins, who signed permanently in the summer.[LNB] Cummings told the Daily Echo: The manager approached me about it and I was only too happy to sign. It shows that if you apply yourself then you can be rewarded, regardless of whether you are in the team.[LNB] Everybody knows you can't just rely on 11 players. Although I'm unhappy about not playing, I will do everything I can to get into the team and will be ready, if and when called upon.[LNB] I still think I've got a lot to offer and feel I've done well when I have played. Rhoys has done well but I'm determined to keep pushing as hard as I can.[LNB] If things change at any point then, hopefully, I'll take my opportunity.[LNB] Cherries boss Howe confirmed he had received a couple of enquiries for Cummings, whose previous contract had been due to expire in the summer.[LNB] I've been here a long time and I enjoy it, added Cummings. I wouldn't have signed if I didn't think there would be an opportunity to play at some point. The team is progressing, it's an exciting team and I want to remain part of it.[LNB] Cummings, currently the longest-serving player on the club's book, will remain under contract to Cherries at least until June 2012.[LNB] Boss Howe told the Daily Echo: It is a reward for his attitude and for how well he has done, both in training and in reserve games. Players who are not in the team are as important as those who are.[LNB] Warren has had to respond to a setback. He wants to play every week but has been unfortunate that Rhoys has been excellent and so consistent.[LNB] It has been frustrating for Warren but his attitude has always been spot on, he has been professional and shown he is a team player. He has always encouraged and supported the other players and we are very fortunate to have him in our squad.[LNB] A couple of clubs showed an interest in taking him but we were always keen to tie him down for another year and extend his stay with us.[LNB]

Source: Bournemouth_Echo