Howe’s plan to keep sub star Wilshere fit pays early dividend

BOURNEMOUTH manager Eddie Howe admitted he is unsure when Jack Wilshere will be able to play a full 90 minutes after sending him off the bench to inspire victory against West Brom.

Wilshere, on loan from Arsenal for a season, was introduced in the 62nd minute to a standing ovation and the midfielder turned a match which was chuntering towards a goalless draw into Bournemouth’s first three points of the season.

Striker Callum Wilson flicked in Charlie Daniel’s low cross with 10 minutes remaining for his first goal in nearly a year and his first since an horrific knee injury.

Afterwards Howe revealed they will carefully manage Wilshere to ensure he avoids injuries which have blighted his career. ‘In terms of the training data we looked at — we felt half an hour was a good call for him to play,’ said Howe. ‘What we don’t want is to push too early. The key for us is to have him fit and available all season. His introduction gave us a foothold, I thought he was terrific, he was the touch of quality that we needed. We’re going to need to keep him fit.

‘I don’t know when he can play 90 minutes. Let’s take it step by step, we’re delighted by his attitude to training.’

Wilshere said: ‘I spoke with the manager and he’s got a plan for me so I was happy to be on the bench. My biggest goal is to get as many games as possible.’

West Brom supporters chanted ‘Tony Pulis, your football is **** ’ but their manager hit back, saying: ‘I’ve been here 20 months and my remit was that Jeremy Peace wanted to sell the club. To do that, the club has made profit in the last two seasons, we’ve finished 13th and 14th — there are big clubs who have been relegated with massive debt.

‘The Chinese are coming in next week so the club is getting taken over and we’ll see what vision they have.’ Bournemouth (4-4-2): Boruc 7; Smith 6, Francis 7, Cook 7, Daniels 7.5; Stanislas 6 (Gosling 73min, 6), Surman 6, Arter 8, Ibe 6.5 (Wilshere 62, 6.5); Wilson 7.5, King 6 (Gradel 73, 6). Subs (not used): Federici, Smith, Wilson, Afobe. Booked: Smith. WeSt Brom (4-1-4-1): Foster 6; Dawson 6, McAuley 6, Evans 6, Galloway 5.5; Yacob 6 (Leko 82); Phillips 6.5, Fletcher 6 (Gardner 71, 6), Field 6, Chadli 6; Berahino 5.5 (Rondon 62, 6). Subs (not used): Myhill, Nyom, Olsson, McClean. Booked: Yacob, Evans, Field. referee: K Friend (Leicestershire) 7.