Bournemouth captain Tommy Elphick has said that the club's work during pre-season must pay off.

The Cherries have faced Bristol City, Portsmouth and Spanish giants Real Madrid during their preparations for the new campaign.

They play Charlton Athletic in their first match of the season on Saturday, and Elphick has said that the players have prepared well for the game.

"A lot of hard work has gone into pre-season, both in training and in the games. But to get the season started is what it is all about," he told the club's official website.

"The fixtures have been tough, which will help us throughout the season. Everyone has got game time and nearly everyone has come through it fit, so it is all about getting to Charlton now – that's been the mind-set throughout."

Bournemouth will play in the second tier this season for the first time since 1987.