Source: Bournemouth_Echo
Cherries: Partington is on the comeback trail
INJURY victim Joe Partington is hoping to put himself in the selection frame after setting out on the path to full fitness.[LNB] The talented homegrown product has been restricted to just five appearances this term because of a persistent groin injury.[LNB] But the Welsh youth international is finally nearing a comeback after his lengthy absence.[LNB] Partington's return would be a timely boost for boss Eddie Howe, with the emerging prospect capable of playing either in central defence or midfield.[LNB] He is keen to force his way into the reckoning.[LNB] Partington told the Echo: While the lads have been doing so well it's been difficult to get in.[LNB] In the next couple of weeks, hopefully I will start training every day and I can put myself in the picture.[LNB] Although unable to play a role, Partington's spirits have been kept high by Cherries' fine form.[LNB] It would be more difficult watching the lads lose, sat on the bench, he said.[LNB] The consolation to not playing is that the team is winning, which is not as bad as not playing and losing.[LNB] Hopefully we can keep winning and then I can get myself in a winning team.[LNB] Partington is more than happy to display his versatility, with boss Howe seeing the midfielder as a possible defensive option.[LNB] I've said to Eddie before and I'll say it again, I'll play wherever he wants me to and give 100 per cent in that position, said Partington.[LNB] I've spoken to Eddie about it and I'll play wherever. If centre-back is where I'm supposed to play, then centre-back is where I'll play.[LNB] It's nice that Eddie sees me in a few different positions, which is always a positive.[LNB] Explaining the reasons for his lengthy spell on the sidelines, Partington added: I had two injections either side of my groin and that kept me out for about six weeks.[LNB] I just had to train with the physio and come back training with the lads once every couple of days or once every three days, which isn't enough to be starting in the first team.[LNB]
