CHERRIES legend Steve Cook has capped his first campaign at Queens Park Rangers by being voted as the fans’ player of the season.

The west London club have found the going tough at times in the Championship, only recently pulling away from the relegation zone.

But Cook’s performances individually have been recognised by the Hoops supporters.

Centre-back Cook, 33, joined QPR in August having been deemed surplus to requirements by Nottingham Forest.

He has made 34 appearances, scoring two goals, which came recently, in back-to-back wins over Birmingham City and Swansea City. They were his first goals since netting for Cherries in a 2-1 Premier League defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers in November 2019.

Cook, who won the Daily Echo Micky Cave Trophy for his performances in the 2016-17 season, played 387 times for Cherries, scoring 21 goals, helping the team up from League One into the Premier League, where he continued to be a key figure in the side.

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He eventually lost his place in the team following the appointment of Scott Parker as boss in the summer of 2021, and subsequently joined Forest, who he helped win the Championship play-offs.

Discussing his award at QPR, Cook told the club’s website: “It’s amazing. I’m really proud to have received it.

“I think the fans have been outstanding for us this year and to receive the vote is amazing for myself. I’m really happy and I can only thank them for their continued support over the year and voting for me this season as well.

“I’ve really enjoyed playing for this club.

“I was really keen to join in the summer.

“As an overall season it’s been an up and down one for the club. A difficult transition season.

“To try and come in, contribute and be an influence in the dressing room is what I’ve tried to be.

“On the pitch I’ve been pleased. Obviously I missed a few games this season, which I was disappointed about. But overall I’m really pleased with how it’s gone.”

He added: “The highlight for me was the Birmingham game (in March).

“Seeing such an amazing goal Jimmy (Dunne) scored and the timing of it, and obviously getting my first goal for the club, after a long, long time personally without scoring.

“The emotions after that match were really high.”