EDDIE Howe revealed Cherries are approaching a crossroads over Max Gradel's comeback on the back of recent progress.

The Cherries boss reported more positive news over the Ivorian winger's recovery from a serious knee injury picked up against Leicester in August.

Asked how far Gradel was from playing competitive football, Howe said: “We’ve got decisions to make with Max over when we bring him back into contention to be in a squad.

“He has worked hard and looked good. We haven’t seen a great deal of him on the training ground but the physios and doctors are pleased with the progress he is making.

“At some stage we will have a decision to make over when to bring him back in."

Cherries may be without Lewis Grabban (groin) for tomorrow's Premier League trip to Watford (3pm) but could welcome back skipper Tommy Elphick after his FA Cup appearance against Everton.

“The beauty of last week was that Tommy came through unscathed and did very well," added Howe.

"It was the same with Sylvain Distin and a number of the other players who put themselves in the frame for the Premier League.

“It was a healthy game for us, despite the defeat. There were some positives to come out of it but we will wait and see what we do with the team selection."

  • Next month's Premier League trip to Tottenham Hotspur has been rescheduled due to the host club's Europa League commitments.

Eddie Howe's men will now play at White Hart Lane on Sunday, March 20 (4pm).

Supporters with tickets who cannot attend can claim a refund from the Cherries ticket office.

Meanwhile, all available tickets for Tuesday's home clash with Southampton have been issued.