I’ll return from under-20 World Cup a better player, says Bournemouth’s Cook

Midfielder Lewis Cook believes he will come back to Bournemouth a better player after captaining England’s under-20 side at the World Cup in South Korea.

The former Leeds United man, 20, scored against Guinea in the group stage and bagged an assist in the quarter-final victory over Mexico.

After beating Italy 3-1 on Thursday, England became the first men’s side since the senior team in 1966 to reach a World Cup final, where they will face Venezuela on Sunday.

And Cook believes the experience is a steep learning curve for him and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that will stand him in good stead for the future.

Photo by Robert Cianflone – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images

“We’ve faced teams from different cultures and with different styles of play,” he said. “You’re always learning new things and I think I’ll return to Bournemouth a better player.

“Everyone has experienced a lot and we’ve all built our knowledge of the game. Going back to your club after playing in a World Cup is a massive thing.

“I’ll never forget it and, mentally, it’ll be a good thing. I’ll cherish being part of this.”

Despite missing most of last season, Cook turned out in a handful of impressive displays for the Cherries after being given the chance by boss Eddie Howe.

“I’m very happy and grateful that happened and, hopefully, I can pay the manager back,” added Cook.

“There’s a lot of pressure playing in the Premier League and that experience has helped me in South Korea.”