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."

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