FORMER Cherries fans' favourite Warren Feeney has resisted the temptation to open old wounds ahead of his much-anticipated return to Dean Court.

Feeney came in for some heavy stick from a section of irate Cherries supporters following his departure to Stockport County in the summer.

But despite being privately stung by the criticism, the Ulsterman has continued to maintain a dignified silence since joining the Edgeley Park outfit.

And ahead of facing his former club for the first time tonight, Feeney has again chosen to keep his side of the story to himself.

The 23-year-old, speaking exclusively to the Daily Echo, insisted the drawn-out transfer saga was now "all water under the bridge".

But he added: "I think I'm going to get a bit of stick. I've still got a couple of friends down there and they have been telling me that a lot of people have turned against me.

"I had three good years with Bourne-mouth and the fans were always superb with me. I know a couple of things didn't work out the way I wanted them to and I just thought it was time to move on.

"I think there were a few things that went on behind the scenes, but I'm not prepared to go into detail. Out of respect to everybody, some things are better left unsaid. I seem to have got the stick for everything that went on, but I've kept my mouth shut.

"I don't think it would make any difference if I gave my reasons for leaving the club because I would still get punished for it. I would like to think I've risen above all that, even though I still seem to be getting a bit of grief. A few things went on and people have heard one side of the story which is why I think I'll get some grief. It's crossed my mind to put my side, but it's all water under the bridge so I'd like to move on now.

"I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Bournemouth and they are a great bunch of lads. But I've left now and I'm focused on doing well for Stockport. I'm looking to the future and not to the past."

Feeney scotched suggestions he would get added satisfaction from scoring against his old club when he said: "A goal's a goal and it doesn't matter who it's against. My job is to score goals for Stockport. They pay my wages and I get 100 per cent of them, every month."

Voted supporters' player of the year in his first full season with Cherries in 2002, Feeney has netted three times for the Hatters, although Sammy McIlroy's side currently prop up the League One table.

Feeney, who is hoping to shake off a rib injury, added: "We've started poorly and we're not going to hide from that. The players know and so does the gaffer. But it's early days. They went on a good run last season and we're unbeaten in three league and cup games at the moment.

"Everyone can beat everyone else in this league and I think it's a lot weaker than last season. Although we've had a tough start, we've conceded too many goals from our own mistakes and set-pieces. But the team spirit is very good and I'm sure a couple of wins will kick-start the season for us. We've certainly got the right manager. He's full of enthusiasm and always wears his heart on his sleeve."