CHERRIES boss Eddie Howe hopes Yann Kermorgant’s star turn against Ipswich could be the springboard for the striker to start a consistent run in the team.

Kermorgant followed up his stunning opening goal by playing a major role in what Howe described as “one of our best performances of the season”.

The Frenchman, who posted a contender for the club’s goal of the season with an acrobatic volley, was back to his imperious best as Cherries created a host of chances during the 2-2 draw.

Since starting Cherries’ first four games in the Championship, a combination of injury and suspension has prevented Kermorgant from trying to establish himself as regular.

Two international breaks also came at the wrong time for the frontman, who was forced to serve a three-match ban for a controversial sending-off at Bolton at the start of last month.

A key figure as Cherries mounted a late surge for the play-offs last season, Kermorgant hit nine goals in 16 games following his £400,000 move from Charlton in January.

Howe said: “It was a great performance from Yann against Ipswich. He really came to the fore and showed what he is capable of and not just with the goal, which was technically superb.

“His all-round game and his aerial ability were excellent. It looked like Yann had the bit between his teeth and it showed how key he is for us because, when he performs like that, we look a different team.

“He has come back (following his suspension) with all guns blazing. You could see what Yann did for the team and where he took us, not single handedly, at the end of last season. He was a huge part in our success and scored a number of crucial goals.

“Hopefully, this can be a start for him now and he can get a consistent run, build partnerships and we can see the very best of him.”

Kermorgant, who notched 17 goals for Charlton and Cherries last season, took his tally to four against Ipswich when he met Simon Francis’ inch-perfect delivery with a sublime right-foot volley.

Assist man Francis said: “He tries it every day in training and he tries the outrageous things in games as well. A lot of the time, they come off.

“He is that kind of player. He is a confident guy on and off the pitch and I think only he would have tried that in that situation but it came off and what can you say – it was a fantastic finish.

“I thought Yann was excellent for us throughout. He is unplayable when he is on that kind of form and is invaluable to us.”