MOHAMED Coulibaly is determined to hand Cherries a festive boost – by banishing his injury woes to make a first-team return.

Summer signing Coulibaly made an eye-catching impact during pre-season but he has been restricted to just four appearances this term.

But the 25-year-old, who has been hit by Achilles and calf problems, is back in training and aiming to feature during the hectic Christmas and new year period.

Coulibaly told the club website: “I am really happy because I went a long time without training.

“I enjoyed the first week and I feel good but I have to be careful.

“Everything is good and, hopefully, it will stay that way and I can work on my fitness this week.

“It was a strange injury in my Achilles. It wasn’t easy because there was some inflammation but it is better and, hopefully, I can get to my best as soon as possible.”

The livewire wide man says he has learned about the English game from watching Cherries’ matches but he is now keen to put that to use by showcasing his skills in the Championship.

Coulibaly added: “It is interesting for me to watch the games and how the lads play but I don’t like it too much because it means I am not playing.

“When you watch, you want to go on the pitch and help the team. It is not easy when you are sitting and watching.

“But I know we have a lot of games soon because when I signed, they told me about playing on Boxing Day, which is something I have not done before.

“It is possible that I can play in these games and if it is okay with the gaffer, then it is what I want to do.”