Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe has hailed the character of Steve Cook.
Cook was back for the 5-0 rout of Brighton having been sidelined since February.
Howe told the Daily Echo: “Steve Cook returning was huge for us.
“His leadership, mentality and experience was just what the group needed.
“It was a really nasty infection. Speaking to him at the time and afterwards, it was a really low point for him.
“From being a professional footballer one minute to not being able to walk and climb your stairs the next, can be quite destabilising.
“But I think he's an unbelievable character when the chips are down.
“He hadn't done a lot of training for Saturday's game but is someone you can always rely on to give his best and inspire other people.
“Him coming back into the group was a big boost for the lads last week."