EDDIE Howe has urged patience and support for summer recruit Jordon Ibe and insists the former Liverpool winger's tender years should be remembered.

Cherries' record signing, the 20-year-old has shown glimpses of his talent but is yet to complete 90 minutes in the Premier League in nine appearances under Howe.

Despite plenty of industry, Ibe struggled to make an impact during Cherries' 0-0 draw with Tottenham and cut a disconsolate figure when he was replaced by Ivory Coast international Max Gradel on the hour.

And while boss Howe admitted it had been a difficult outing for the ex-Anfield youngter, he backed the wide man to soon find his best form.

Howe told the Daily Echo: "Like any player, he wanted to stay on the pitch but I had to make a decision for the benefit of the team.

"It was a difficult game for Jordon. I think he was up against a very good opponent in Kyle Walker, England's number-one right-back, and it was a good test.

"I thought they both gave as good as they got and there were moments where Jordon looked like he was going to be a major player in the game.

"It didn't quite work out that he had the moments of quality he would want but it's another part of his development.

"Like with all young players, we need to show patience and support. As long as he shows the right attitude with me every day, I've no doubt he will improve very quickly.

"Because of his physical make-up, he looks older than he actually is so his age needs to be remembered."

Cherries' resilient shut-out against Spurs saw Mauricio Pochettino's side prevented from scoring in a Premier League game for the first time since March.

It was Cherries' third clean sheet in five home league fixtures after they kept out West Brom and Everton in September.

Asked how much his team could take from the shut-out, Howe said: "I think we can take huge confidence defensively.

"A lot was spoken about our defensive work last season and we were disappointed to have conceded so many goals.

"One of our aims this season was to put that right and become a more effective defensive unit.

"I think we've gone the right way to doing that. There are still areas to improve, that will always be the case, but I think we've made big strides in a short period of time.

"I know it's a cliche, but it comes down to the whole team. It starts from the front two, the midfield four protect the back four and the back four protect the goalkeeper.

"If one of those units doesn't work, you are not going to succeed as a team. The most pleasing thing against Tottenham was that every unit functioned to a high level."