Cook will get first-team chance, says Bournemouth boss Howe

Young Bournemouth star Lewis Cook will get his chance in the first team, according to manager Eddie Howe.

Cook has not played since the opening day of the season, after joining from Championship side Leeds United for £7 million in the summer.

He started in the opening day defeat to Manchester United at the Vitality Stadium, but has not featured in a matchday squad since.

Cook then suffered an ankle injury in October, picked up on England under-20s duty, keeping him out of action for three months.

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But Cherries boss Howe is impressed with the attitude and work-rate of the young midfielder, and believes the 19-year-old will take his chance in the side when it is given to him.

“Lewis’s state of mind has been very good,” Howe said. “He has focused on getting himself fit and has worked incredibly hard.

“He has a great attitude and really loves his football and you can see that on the training ground every day.

“He is one we are really pleased to see back and we want to continue to develop him and, hopefully, when his chance comes he will be ready to take it.”