EDDIE Howe insists he "couldn't think more of Jack Wilshere" and would "certainly" like the on-loan midfielder to stay with Cherries beyond this season.

Wilshere has been limited to five minutes of action across his team's past two games and on Thursday was omitted from Gareth Southgate's England squad.

Nevertheless, Howe is adamant the 25-year-old's stock is as high as it ever has been at Vitality Stadium, claiming Wilshere has a key role to play in the remainder of Cherries' campaign.

"We couldn’t think more of the player, so if there was a chance for us to maintain our relationship beyond this season we would certainly look at that," said Howe.

"But the loan was very much put in place for Jack to try to play football, stay fit, express himself on a really good platform, then make his own decision on where he goes next.

"I haven't spoken to him about his future yet. We are immersed in the season and trying to fight for every point we can get.

"Any talk about the future is for the summer."

Howe would not reveal whether Wilshere's efforts against West Ham last week, when he emerged from the bench to help create Cherries' winning goal, would be enough for him to reclaim his starting spot against Swansea tomorrow.

The manager's decision could be influenced by Harry Arter's availability, with Howe saying Cherries' will make a "very late decision" on the Ireland international's fitness after he injured a calf against West Ham.

Fellow midfielder Andrew Surman's return following a one-match ban, however, means the manager will not be short of options and he says his players understand that competition for places is hot.

"Jack's reaction when he came on against West Ham demonstrates where he was mentally," said Howe.

"He came on and played an absolutely pivotal role in the third goal, which was a great goal for us to score, in the manner it came about and the way it was executed.

"Jack showed his quality in that moment.

"I think he’s a terrific option to have, whether he’s starting or coming off the bench.

"The players are very aware that to keep their place they have to perform.

"Historically we have always done that. Everyone knows there is good competition in every position."

Howe admitted his surprise at Wilshere not being included in Southgate's 26-man Three Lions party, but said he had not spoken to the player about his exclusion.

"I was surprised, because of the quality of player that Jack is." added the Cherries boss.

"But I’m not looking at the squad in terms of who else there is to pick from.

"I think Jack has performed really well for us.

"I still feel there is a lot more to come, as he continues to get back to his very highest levels."

Howe revealed, meanwhile, that the hamstring injury Lys Mousset sustained playing for the under-21s this week is not serious.

Junior Stanislas is closing on full fitness following a groin injury.