HOTSHOT Charlie Austin is tipping Eddie Howe to improve Harry Cornick and has told his fellow Wessex graduate: Have no fear.

Former Poole Town star Austin knows what it takes to make the transition from non-league to the professional ranks following his remarkable footballing rise.

The prolific striker – who played for Poole in the Wessex League as recently as 2009 – had been expected to complete a £4.5million switch to Premier League new boys Hull City today, only for the deal to reportedly collapse at the 11th hour.

Although Cherries boss Howe has played down comparisons between the pair, Cornick will also try to make a big impact in the professional game.

Austin, 24, earned a switch to Swindon in October 2009 after netting 64 goals in 57 appearances for Poole, having relocated to Westbourne with his family.

Howe, who was unable to sign Austin for Cherries due to a transfer embargo, landed his man while in charge of Burnley.

Having built a big reputation by scoring 82 goals in 155 games as a pro, former bricklayer Austin is urging teenage winger Cornick to learn from Howe as he attempts to make the grade.

Asked what advice he would give to Cornick, Austin told the Daily Echo: “To not be worried.

“He should go in there full of confidence because he has got there by his own ability. No one else has got him there.

“He can go there and just show everybody what he can do and be confident.

“Eddie Howe is a great manager who improved me, so why can’t he improve Harry.”

Discussing the jump from the Wessex League, Austin said: “It is massive. The fitness levels are the one. You don’t realise how fit a professional footballer is until you get to that point.

“The class of the players also shows and it is a big step. But when you get in those surroundings every day, you get more confident with each day.”

Cornick, who linked up with Howe’s men last month after finishing his A-levels, will face former club Christchurch as part of a strong Cherries team at Hurn Bridge tonight (7.45pm).

Howe said: “Harry is very much a young player with potential who has not been exposed to professional football, so there will be a bedding-in period for him.

“It will be interesting to see how he develops and adapts to training professionally every day and the demands that places on him.

“He has definitely got potential and could develop in time to be a good player, but we definitely won’t be pushing him too early.”

Prices for the match at Hurn Bridge are £5 for adults and £2 concessions and children. Parking will be open from 6pm and Priory are advising spectators to arrive early to secure a parking place.