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First Team

Team news: Pair could be back for Blades clash

AFC Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe could welcome back both Joshua King and Jack Stacey for Sunday’s visit to Sheffield United.

Frontman King and defender Stacey have both been sidelined since sustaining hamstring injuries during the Cherries’ 2-0 defeat at Brighton at the end of December.

The pair have missed the past seven games in all competitions but returned to full training earlier this week as Howe’s squad continued preparations for the trip to Bramall Lane.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference this morning, Howe told the media: “Joshua and Jack have trained this week and are both getting close. We’ll have to make decision if we involve them on Sunday.”

Howe also confirmed long-term injury victim David Brooks was still “some way away” from a return but said the 22-year-old was making progress.

“He’s back in England,” said Howe, with Brooks having spent time in Qatar receiving specialist treatment. “He was running on the grass for the first time yesterday.”

The Cherries head to the Steel City bidding to register a third Premier League win on the trot following back-to-back victories over Brighton and Aston Villa.