Talismanic striker Steve Fletcher admits Bournemouth have exceeded expectations so far this season.

The Cherries are top of League Two despite having numerous injuries and a transfer embargo, which has left boss Eddie Howe with a threadbare squad.

And Fletcher believes the spirit in the camp is the reason for their impressive start to the campaign.

He told Press Association Sport: "I think at the start of the season we hoped to be up there, but with the problems we have had with the embargo Eddie couldn't add to the squad and I think we are the only team in the country who couldn't add to the squad.

"You then hope to stay injury-free, but we lost two or three experienced players which left us a bit deflated, so I think it was more hope than expectation that we would be towards the top.

"Everything seems to be against us, but it's brought us together as a team and sometimes a smaller unit brings you together. We have a great bunch of lads and a great spirit and that is so important."