KEVIN Bond says it would be "feasible" for Cherries to rival Saints - but also admits it could be "unbelievably difficult" to realise their Championship dream.

Bond, who captained Saints in the top-flight in the early 1980s, also played for Cherries when they last appeared in the second tier between 1987 and 1990.

The South Coast neighbours, who meet in a pre-season friendly at Dean Court tomorrow, last locked horns at league level in the old third division in 1960.

Asked whether he felt Cherries could again compete on a level playing field with Saints, Bond, who was Harry Redknapp's assistant at Saints from December 2004 to November 2005, replied: "Of course, if you've got a good enough team".

Bond added: "One thing is for certain, though - we are not in a position to buy our way out of this league like one or two other clubs are capable of doing.

"If we're going to get out of this league, we're going to have to work our way out, which is going to be unbelievably difficult. But it happens in one of the leagues most seasons.

"All of a sudden, somebody drops on to a couple of players who make their season and that's what we all live in hope for.

"If you can get a couple of nuggets who can make the difference, you can have a fantastic season.

Then, if you go up, you've got to consolidate otherwise you will go back down again.

"We've been there before and I played under Harry (Redknapp) in the old second division. With the right players, Bournemouth could certainly go up.

"It's feasible but at this moment in time and, like a lot of clubs at this level, it's highly unlikely unless you get a real break.

"Having said that, you can go up by finishing sixth in the league. If you can edge your way into the play-offs and build up a head of steam, you could go up. Anything's possible and that's what we're all hoping for, but it will be difficult".

Bond said he was "desperately disappointed" that Saints failed to regain their Premiership status last season after losing out in the play-off semi-final to eventual winners Derby.

"They were hugely unlucky at Derby where they were the better side," added Bond. "Derby were second best in the second leg and had the rub of the green.

"I felt for Southampton because they equipped themselves really well and deserved to go through but you don't always get what you deserve".

Bond added: "It will be tougher next season but George (Burley) has done well everywhere he's been and there is no reason why he won't do well at Southampton.

But it's going to become increasingly difficult unless they have an input of funds".