Elliott Ward's new contract gives AFCB defensive strength

Elliott Ward has signed a new contract with AFCB that keeps him at Dean Court until June 2016. Because there was so much going on last week I think this story has largely gone unnoticed, but it is important that Bournemouth has retained Elliott for next season and beyond as he has worked hard to be a regular player in the side. Having only signed up for a year at first, it shows that he is liking his time on the south coast.

Heads up, Ward warms up before the Watford game.

The Match Day programme did feature Elliott's new contract at the last game and says that the two and a half-year deal was signed with no hesitation. It is pleasing to see another key player sign up for a longer period. Competition in the side should remain strong if Elliott can stay injury free and rival Tommy Elphick and Steve Cook for a place. I do see that Ward fancies himself as a bit of a striker and towards the end of games he has been pushing forward when the opportunity arises. He looks comfortable on the ball for a big player and if he can create a bit of panic in the opposition's box, I see this as a good addition to his game.

Against Watford I though Elliott had one of his best matches up until the goal that Angella scored. It was a header that Elliott may have been able to stop if he had managed to out jumped the Watford centre back, but he didn't seem able to make much of a challenge. That Angella out leaped AFCB's defence is a matter of concern because he has done it before. I expect Eddie Howe had spoken at length about Watford's aerial ability before the game. So it was disappointing to concede in that way just before half time.

Ward though has formed a good partnership with Elphick and it is now up to Steve Cook to show in training that he should be back in the team.