CHERRIES manager Eddie Howe said Eunan O’Kane’s first full cap was deserved reward for his professionalism and dedication.

O’Kane won his spurs when he came off the bench to help the Republic of Ireland claim a 1-0 win over Switzerland in a friendly in Dublin on Friday.

The 25-year-old replaced Hull City’s David Meyler after 62 minutes and went close to marking his debut with a goal, his long-range effort flashing narrowly wide late on.

O’Kane became only the fourth player to be capped by the Republic while playing for Cherries, following in the footsteps of Harry Arter, Tommy Godwin and Gerry Peyton.

He joined Cherries for a bargain £175,000 in the summer 2012 and has played a key role in the club’s rise from the depths of League One to the Premier League.

The midfielder’s introduction as a half-time substitute during Cherries’ defeat at Tottenham eight days ago saw him bring up his 100th league appearance for the Dorset club.

In an exclusive interview with the Daily Echo, Howe said: “I am delighted for Eunan. It would have been a very proud moment for him, as it was for us as a club.

“It is always an honour for a player to represent their country and Eunan has worked very hard for his opportunity.

“As the club has progressed through the leagues, more players have earned international recognition as a result of showcasing their talents at a higher level.

“Eunan is a valued member of our squad and has been an integral part of our success.

“He is a talented player and someone we enjoy working with. Winning his first cap is deserved reward for his professionalism and dedication and, hopefully, it will be the first of many.”

O'Kane will be hoping to again feature when the Republic host Slovakia tomorrow.

Howe was also pleased to see Max Gradel back on the international stage following his lengthy injury layoff.

Gradel, who returned recently after spending six months on the sidelines, started Ivory Coast’s 1-0 win over Sudan in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Good Friday.

Howe said: “I know how proud Max is to play for his country so it was great to see him back. He certainly made an impact for them, as he has for us in recent games.

“We are mindful he was out for such a long period of time and his fitness and well-being are of paramount importance, the same with every other player.

“That said, we are delighted to see our players performing well when they are away with their respective countries.”

Meanwhile, Cherries striker Tokelo Rantie was on target in South Africa’s 2-2 draw with Cameroon in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Saturday.

Rantie became Bafana’s eighth highest goalscorer when he netted the opener, although the result leaves them struggling to make the finals.

Goalkeeper Artur Boruc played the first 45 minutes of Poland’s 5-0 win over Finland in a friendly in Wroclaw.