Partington set to boost Cherries options

02 January 2011 15:00
Bournemouth defender Joe Partington could return to the squad for the home clash with Brentford. Partington missed the 2-1 win at Swindon New Year's Day with a knock but is expected to give Cherries manager Eddie Howe extra options at the back. Michael Symes (back and thigh) is hoping to feature after returning from injury as an unused substitute at the County Ground, but Howe also has plenty of other strikers available. Veteran Steve Fletcher returned to the starting line-up against Swindon, while Danny Ings and fellow forward Lee Bradbury both stepped off the bench in the second half. Midfielder Shaun Cooper made his first start since the end of November and appears to have recovered from his back problem, while Anton Robinson shook off a virus to play on New Year's Day. Defender Ryan Garry remains a long-term absentee due to a shin injury.

Source: PA