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Cook sidelined by knee injury

AFC Bournemouth midfielder Lewis Cook will be sidelined for six-to-nine months with a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament.

The 21-year-old England international suffered the serious knee injury during Tuesday’s Premier League victory over Huddersfield Town.

Cook was assessed by the club’s medical staff following the match, with further assessment and scans on Wednesday revealing the extent of the damage to his right knee.

“We are all devastated for Lewis,” said AFC Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe.

“It is a huge blow to a very talented player who has been a very important part of our side over the last 18 months.

“But Lewis is a strong character who only has to look around our dressing room for inspiration of how an injury like this is merely a setback and to know that he can come back better than ever.

“He will have the full support and love of everyone at the club throughout the next few months as he receives the very best treatment and rehabilitation possible.”

Cook has made 56 appearances in all competitions for the Cherries since joining the club in July 2016 from Leeds United, with 15 of those coming this season.