Eddie Howe has been speaking to the media this morning, offering an update on the injury front ahead of tomorrow’s crucial home clash with Leicester City.
Yesterday brought mixed news on Callum Wilson, Nick Pope and Joe Willock and the boss was asked about the availability of all three in today’s press conference. Here’s what he had to say:
Howe confirmed reports that **Callum Wilson** has suffered yet another injury setback, revealing that the striker will be sidelined for eight weeks due to a fresh hamstring strain.
On Wilson, he said: “He’ll be out for eight weeks. I really feel for Callum because we see the work, the dedication, the professionalism that he’s shown, not just in the recovery from this injury, but throughout his career.
“To me he’s an inspirational player and I think when you’re in these moments for him, you have to understand how difficult this season has been for him.
“There’s been a couple of setbacks when he’s looked like he’s so close to training and playing regularly and building that resilience that his body needs to perform at this level. He has not cut corners, he’s gone through a vigorous process to try and keep himself fit.”
**Nick Pope** is also a doubt for tomorrow’s game against the Foxes due to a knee issue picked up in last weekend’s 4-2 defeat at Brentford.
On Pope, Howe said: “He’s carried a knee issue this week. Initially we thought it was nothing. He is seeking a specialist opinion today then we’ll see if he’s available.” Should he miss out, The Mail’s Craig Hope reports that Martin Dubravka is in line to start.
The boss revealed that **Joe Willock** is yet to train this week, but is making “good progress” after a minor hamstring issue kept him out of our last game.
Howe said: “Joe Willock we haven’t seen train yet but he’s making good progress and Lewis Miley has come through a couple of really good games (U21s) for his continued return and he’s looking really good so I’m pleased with him.”
Willock has had his fair share of injuries over the past 18 months, battling Achilles and hamstring issues before a thigh issue kept him out of our 2-1 win over Spurs earlier this season.
With midfield duo Joelinton and Sandro Tonali one yellow card away from a ban and Sean Longstaff suspended for the cup quarter-final on Wednesday, we’ll have to hope Willock can get fit and stay fit over the coming weeks.