CALLUM Wilson is nudging ever closer to playing a full match for Cherries but boss Eddie Howe insists the striker will not be rushed.

The 24-year-old hitman returned from long-term injury with a last-minute substitute appearance at Aston Villa before playing the final 15 minutes of last weekend’s 2-1 defeat to Liverpool.

Asked about the prospect of Wilson starting matches ahead of tomorrow’s home clash with Chelsea (3pm), Howe said: “He is getting closer.

"I was pleased with his cameo last week, in his 15 minutes he did very well and it was no coincidence that we had our best spell of the game.

“The most important thing for him at the moment is that he stays fit, is able to train and he builds up his minutes.”

On the clubs walking wounded, Howe continued: “We have Adam Smith still nursing a groin problem and we need to make sure that doesn’t turn into a chronic problem for the long term. We are trying to manage that situation.

“Harry Arter is in a similar situation where he has a long-standing problem and we need to try to make sure that doesn’t become a big issue for him next season.

“Benik Afobe has made good progress and I would now consider Junior Stanislas fully fit.”