CHERRIES manager Eddie Howe has expressed his “immense delight” after striker Callum Wilson tonight made his debut for England under-21s.

Wilson became the first Cherries player since Howe to win a cap for the under-21s when he came off the bench in their 3-2 defeat by France in Brest.

The 22-year-old, who has netted 11 goals for Cherries this season, came on as a 66th-minute replacement for Tottenham’s Harry Kane in the friendly.

Signed by Howe from Coventry City in the summer, Wilson has made an immediate impact as Cherries have climbed to second place in the Championship.

Howe made two appearances for England under-21s in the 1998 Toulon Tournament, lining up against South Africa and eventual winners Argentina.

Wilson, who was named Championship player of the month for October, earned his call-up on the back of a succession of impressive displays for Cherries.

Speaking exclusively to the Daily Echo after Wilson had won his spurs, Howe said: “It gives everyone associated with the club immense delight to see Callum win a cap for England under-21s.

“I know what it meant to me and I know what he must have been feeling as he prepared to take to the pitch. It is every player’s dream to represent their country and Callum has done that.

“He has worked tirelessly for us this season and has been rewarded and recognised for his efforts. It is a feather in the cap for both him and us as a club.”