CHERRIES boss Andoni Iraola has detailed how Lewis Cook worked hard to help his side as much as possible during his three-match ban.

Midfielder Cook has missed Cherries’ last three fixtures, following a straight red-card for a headbutt on Wolves’ Hwang Hee-chan in a 2-1 defeat at the end of October.

Despite his unavailability on the pitch, Cook has pitched in to help his teammates prepare for fixtures, often filling in at unnatural positions during training.

Asked about Cook and how he had trained whilst suspended, Iraola told the Daily Echo: “Lew is someone who normally trains very well.

“Even if he was out from the games and he knew he couldn’t be involved in the starting XI, he helped us in these three weeks.

“He has been even training sometimes out of position when we needed it.

“He was the first one ready to help with whatever is needed.

“Probably he wants to come back from the red card and perform well, yes.”

Midfielder Cook missed Cherries’ opening two games of the season due to a hip niggle, making his first league appearance under Iraola as a substitute against Tottenham Hotspur.

He then started the following six Premier League games, before his dismissal against Wolves.

Cook is available for this evening's (5.30pm) clash with Newcastle United.