EDDIE Howe has assured the fringe players in his streamlined Cherries squad that they are “valued and wanted”.

And the boss insists every man in his squad has the capability to play a key role in the Dorset club’s fourth season in the Premier League.

While defenders Nathan Ake and Steve Cook and goalkeeper Asmir Begovic are yet to miss a minute of top-flight action this campaign, others are still hoping to earn a run of games.

The likes of Jordon Ibe, Jermain Defoe and Lys Mousset have played fewer than 45 minutes of league football this season.

And boss Howe insisted those not regularly involved could yet surge to the forefront of his thinking.

He told the Daily Echo: “Every single player who is not in the team or matchday squad will be feeling exactly the same thing.

“Some have suffered injuries but every player in my squad is champing at the bit to play a part in the season.

“That’s what you want when you are in my shoes. You want players who have the desire to make a difference for the team.

“Obviously, I can only pick a certain amount of players to do that.

“Compared to most Premier League clubs, the size of the squad isn’t huge.

“We took a decision in the summer to make the squad more streamlined, to not have excess players who aren’t involved.

“Everyone who is in the squad at the moment will think ‘I’m liked by the manager and I’m a big part of the future of the team’.

“I think that’s really important that they feel valued and wanted and I can assure every single one of them that they are by me.

“It’s a long season and there is a long way to go – and then there is injuries, suspensions and loss of form to consider.

“The key thing for the players who aren’t involved at the moment is that when their chance comes, they are ready to take it.”

Meanwhile, Howe has talked up Callum Wilson and Lewis Cook’s chances of an England call.

Both players missed out on the Three Lions squad for the current international window.

Cook made his senior debut for England during the 1-1 draw against Italy in March, while Wilson is uncapped at senior level.

Asked if consistency would be the key to any call from national boss Gareth Southgate, Howe said: “It’s the only way – what else can they do? It’s just about consistently performing well for their team and keeping going the right things and the rest will take care of itself.

“I don’t see a problem with anything in their games or ages or our style of play. It should all be suited to the England set-up.

“They just have to concentrate on the basics and keep performing well.”