Matt Ritchie has turned his attention to helping Bournemouth earn promotion to the Premier League following his decision to sign a new contract with the club.

Despite yesterday's 2-1 home defeat at the hands of Norwich City, Eddie Howe's side remain top of the Championship on goal difference from Derby County.

When asked why he had committed his future to Dean Court until the summer of 2018, the 25-year-old stressed his belief that he can reach the top flight with the Cherries.

"I'm delighted, I've loved my time here. I think everything around the place and everything that is happening is positive. I love the lads and I love working with the staff, the gaffer, everything is right, and I'm from down south so it's perfect," he told BBC Radio Solent.

"The club's in a great place and hopefully we've got a great chance to get to the Premier League. I don't want to speak too soon but I think with the group of players we've got and the mentality we have throughout the group, this could be a really big year and hopefully I can be a part of it.

"To establish myself as a Premier League footballer is a dream and if I can do this with this group of players and with this club it would be special."

Ritchie joined Bournemouth from Swindon back in January 2013.