CHERRIES could be poised to sign former Saints defender Paul Telfer, writes NEIL PERRETT.

The 35-year-old utility man has emerged as the favourite to be unveiled at a press conference today after two other leading candidates both appeared to fall by the wayside.

Dean Court old boys Garreth O'Connor and Stevie Lovell were also understood to be in the frame.

But Burnley midfielder O'Connor was discounted after news broke that he had already returned to the club for pre-season training with a view to signing on loan.

And striker Lovell also now appears to be out of the equation after scoring for Aberdeen in a pre-season friendly against Cove Rangers last night.

News of Bond's interest in Telfer was revealed exclusively by the Echo in April, just days after the Scotsman had returned south from Scotland.

Telfer had his contract cancelled with Celtic by mutual consent and left the club to return to his home in Winchester for personal reasons.

He had intended to quit in the summer but brought forward his exit as his family had failed to settle in Glasgow.

Bond worked with the experienced Telfer during his spell as assistant boss at Saints and the two men are both members of Stoneham Golf Club in Hampshire.

Should Telfer find his way to Dean Court, it would cap a remarkable journey for a man who was playing Champions League football against AC Milan just four months ago.

Saints travel to Dean Court for a friendly against the Cherries next Saturday, July 21.