Former England coach Steve McClaren is backing Bournemouth's interest in Chelsea captain John Terry.

McClaren says the presence of Brazilian maestro Juninho in his squad drew other high-profile performers to Middlesbrough – and insists Chelsea legend Terry could have a similarly galvanising effect if he moves to the south coast.

He told the Daily Echo: "We had difficulty, as Bournemouth are probably finding, in attracting that quality to take us to the next level.

"We attracted a few, like Gaizka Mendieta, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and Mark Viduka: quality players but all coming to the end of their careers.

"John Terry would be an excellent signing for Bournemouth.

"You are always aiming to move up a level – to survive, then be comfortable, then become a contender. He can help you do that.

"He has that professional mentality and would have the immediate respect of all the players – and he is a damn good defender as well."