Cherries: Striker Connell still a consideration

15 May 2010 07:00
Cherries boss Eddie Howe has moved to explain the absence from his retained list of striker Alan Connell.[LNB] Connell was one of four players not offered re-engagement for next season when he met Howe for talks earlier this week.[LNB] But, while Sammy Igoe, Scott Guyett and Jeff Goulding were told they were being released, Connell's negotiations took a different course.[LNB] And depending on developments for both parties over the summer, it appears the versatile frontman could still be offered terms at Dean Court.[LNB] Connell, whose current contract expires at the end of next month, is free to talk to other clubs and would be entitled to leave on a free transfer.[LNB] But with mounting uncertainty over Brett Pitman's future, Howe may be forced to rethink his striking options should the Channel Islander be sold.[LNB] Connell made 38 league appearances during Cherries' promotion campaign and ended the season as the club's second highest marksman behind Pitman.[LNB] He notched three of his nine goals after he had come off the bench to help Cherries to victory against Burton Albion and Port Vale in two of their final three games.[LNB] Asked by the Daily Echo for clarification on Connell's situation, Howe said: It has been left with Alan that he is free to speak to other clubs to see what else is out there for him.[LNB] We will also keep in contact with him during the summer and possibly come together again to see what he wants to do and what we want to do. It has been left open on both sides at the moment. It is not definite that Alan will not be here next season.[LNB]

Source: Bournemouth_Echo