Former Crystal Palace defender Gary Cahill on his call to sign for AFC Bournemouth

Gary Cahill has talked about his decision to sign for AFC Bournemouth after leaving Crystal Palace.

It was announced at the start of August that the centre-back, 35, would not be returning to the South London club after a two-year spell in SE25.

Cahill signed a 12-month deal with the Cherries.

“I took a bit of time in the summer, because I was unsure what I wanted to do,” Cahill told Sky Sports Football.

“The longer I was off, the more I missed playing. I saw coming here as a totally different challenge to what I’ve been used to.

“I’ve come here to deliver on a football pitch, first and foremost.

“I could’ve stayed in the league. Palace offered me another year. Obviously they needed to lower the age of the squad, so that naturally didn’t work out. It was fantastic there. Great football club and I enjoyed my two years. But I had other opportunities to stay in the league, but at those clubs you’re maybe losing more games than you’re winning.

“I’m looking at whether I’m going to add to my [Premier League] appearances or going to a different club that has a young manager and an exciting squad. Ultimately to challenge for promotion.

“I played with the manager [Scott Parker] and spoke to him many times over the summer. I was aware it was an option, early on. But he was a big pull, obviously – knowing him and what he stands for.

“Promotion will be tough. But I’m excited to get going. It’s a long old season in the Championship and I’m aware of that.”