CHERRIES boss Kevin Bond is resigned to being without the services of loan star Max Gradel for "some weeks".

The 19-year-old is currently on compassionate leave in France following the death of his mother 10 days ago.

Gradel returned to the family home in Paris after his mother had lost her fight for life following a road traffic accident.

And although Cherries were hoping the on-loan Leicester winger would be back this week, his return is now likely to be delayed.

Bond told the Daily Echo last night: "I had a conversation with Max today and it's a difficult one for him.

"It was a one-parent-family situation in France and Max has got younger brothers and sisters to look after.

"Max is the senior male in the family and his mother's death has put a lot of extra responsibility on his shoulders.

"What eventually happens is anybody's guess and it could be put in the hands of the French social services so I think it will be some weeks before we see him again."

Meanwhile, Bond is hoping striker Jo Kuffour shakes off a virus ahead of Cherries' trip to League One rivals Millwall on Saturday.

The 26-year-old came off his sick bed to turn out against Swansea on Sunday despite feeling badly under the weather.

Kuffour, who has hit three goals this season, was eventually substituted midway through the second half.

Bond also confirmed that Portsmouth's attempts to recall goalkeeper Asmir Begovic from his loan spell with Cherries have been successful.

The Canadian has officially returned to Fratton Park after the Premier League gave Pompey special dispensation to cancel his registration.

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