Source: Bournemouth_Echo
Cherries: Lovell finds the net but star vows to tread carefully
STEVE Lovell marked the latest chapter of his return from injury with a goal, but then vowed to let his body rule his head.[LNB] The striker turned in an impressive performance during Cherries reserves' 2-0 friendly win at Reading yesterday, bagging the visitors' second goal with a well-taken left foot drive midway through the second half.[LNB] Lovell, who had been sidelined for more than 12 months following ankle surgery, was an unused substitute during Cherries' 2-2 League One draw with Charlton on Saturday his first involvement in Lee Bradbury's senior squad since signing for the Dean Court club last summer.[LNB] But although the 30-year-old admitted he felt ready for a return to the first-team ranks, he promised to tread carefully after such a long spell in the treatment room.[LNB] Lovell, who was substituted after 60 minutes yesterday, told the Echo: I was disappointed not to get on on Saturday but I have come a long way and I'd only had 45 minutes of football in a year. I'm still a way off being completely match-fit, but as long as the manager has a choice and I'm knocking on the door, I'm happy.[LNB] I think the manager always intended me to play for an hour yesterday. The problem when you've been out for so long is that your head wants to do it but your body can't and you pick up injuries when you get tired.[LNB] I have my ups and downs and some days in training I feel really good, whereas others I feel quite bad. But I think it's just me getting used to the physical side again and taking knocks.[LNB] I hope I'd be able to influence a game if I did come on and I'm relishing getting back out there and pulling a shirt on for Bournemouth again.[LNB] Lyle Taylor's strike after 27 minutes gave Cherries the lead yesterday, before Lovell slotted home to make it 2-0.[LNB] Fellow striker Ben Williamson completed 70 minutes after overcoming an ankle injury, although defender Mathieu Baudry limped off early on with a groin strain. Loan signing Donal McDermott also caught the eye, while Bradbury ran the rule over Saints prospect Jordace Holder-Spooner and Glenn Hoddle academy goalkeeper Billy Lumley.[LNB] Lovell added: Donal looked excellent and he is going to be a great asset for us, I'm sure.[LNB]
