MANAGER Eddie Howe praised the versatility of Cherries star Lloyd Kelly and added: “Hopefully he is away from his injury problems.”

The England under-21 international has started the Dorset club’s past two games, featuring at left-back against Newcastle and centre-half at Manchester United.

Asked which was his best position, Howe replied: “I think both positions for us at the moment. I wouldn’t say one or the other – he can play both very well.

“We have seen that, albeit in his very short time with us, when he’s trained.

“From full-back he’s really good athletically, he uses the ball well and is strong and good in the air – has lots of good qualities.

“At centre-back the same qualities show and his use of the ball is very good.”

Kelly has been hit with ankle, thigh and hamstring problems this season, but has played 90 minutes in his past two starts.

Howe added: “We really, really like Lloyd. It’s just a shame we haven’t been able to call upon him more.

“Hopefully he is away from his injury problems and we can build him up to be the player we know he can be.”