CHERRIES boss Eddie Howe believes it is impossible to predict when striker Callum Wilson will be back to his best.

Fit again following his second serious knee injury, Wilson made his first start for Cherries since January when he played 90 minutes – and scored – against Middlesbrough in the Carabao Cup nine days ago.

And the former Coventry City hitman came off the bench to replace the injured Benik Afobe during the second half of Saturday's Premier League defeat to Chelsea.

Asked when Wilson would find his best form, Howe said: 'To be at your peak level after two very serious injuries is an unknown, really. To say when that will be is impossible.

"We are very much looking at Callum every day to see how he progresses.

"I felt it was too big a risk to start him against Chelsea with two games in four days after playing 90 minutes (against Middlesbrough).

"I thought it would be wise to look after him and make sure he's fit, hopefully, for a long time to come."

Wilson's last four goals for Cherries have all been penalties. His most recent league goal was on January 3, when he converted from 12 yards in the 3-3 draw against Arsenal.