Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe is excited by the progress of youngster Gavin Kilkenny.

The Ireland U21 star signed a new long-term contract with the club earlier this season.

And Howe has been delighted with Kilkenny's improvement in training.

He told the Daily Echo: "It's a massive moment for him because I think it's further evidence that we believe in him, we like him.

"It's a confidence boost. He will feel like he belongs a little bit more in and around the players he is training and playing with.

"He's done very well since pre-season really. He really has attacked it, he's given everything, he's grown with the challenges we have given him.

"I have been very pleased with his mindset. It's hugely important when you give players opportunities that they take them.

"We saw something in him. I think we did a couple of training sessions early on in pre-season and he really stood out.

"From that moment we have taken him with us pretty much every day. He's improved, kept his attitude and work-ethic the same – he's got a bright future if he can continue along that path."