Callum Wilson is confident of replacing the injured Jermain Defoe in the Bournemouth starting lineup.

Defoe is expected to be out for around 10 weeks after fracturing his ankle during the Carabao Cup clash against Chelsea last weekend and now Callum Wilson has stated that he is ready to fill in the void left by the veteran attacker.

Wilson said: "I am confident I can be the main goal threat. I have been here for three years scoring consistently so would always back myself to be playing.

"If you get chances and don't take them, you have to put up your hand as a striker. I want to be first choice on the team-sheet.

"That is what you work towards in your performances to make sure the manager selects you for every game and gives you the opportunity to play and help the team. If I didn't think I could score the goals to keep the club up, I wouldn't be a Premier League player.

"You always have to believe in your ability, back yourself and be confident. You need to remain focussed and keep going whether you are missing chances or not getting them at all.

"Jermain is a great player, a great role model and professional. He is someone you want around you fit or injured. He has been a great signing for us and scored a couple of great goals at Crystal Palace.

"It is disappointing he is injured but I am sure he will come back stronger. It is too early to start getting bogged down looking at the table and talking about relegation and this and that.

"We have to take it one game at a time because one win shoots you up the league so you have to focus on the next game.

"I am feeling good. It is a busy period but I am enjoying playing and I want to play as much football as possible. I am getting fitter and stronger with every game so long may it continue."