EDDIE Howe welcomed Adam Smith’s decision to commit his future to Cherries – but admitted the player was facing a race against time to be fit for the start of pre-season.

Boss Howe last month rewarded Smith for his exploits in helping Cherries preserve their Premier League status by handing him a new four-year contract.

The versatile 25-year-old made 31 appearances in the top flight – with the majority coming at right-back – and grew in stature as the season progressed.

But a nagging groin problem kept him sidelined for the final six games and Howe said there were still concerns Smith may not be 100 per cent when the players return in early July.

Howe, who signed Smith from Tottenham for a knockdown £250,000 in January 2014, told the Daily Echo: “We are hopeful he will be fine to join in from day one but it is the type of injury which can frustrate you.

"It's difficult to set a date on a definite return so there are no guarantees.

“Adam has had a number of consultations and all the specialists he saw didn’t want to operate.

"They felt he could recover through rehab and strengthening of the problem area so that is where he is at the moment.”

Discussing Smith’s contract, Howe added: “Adam had to be very patient in our Championship season so I was delighted for him to feature so prominently in the Premier League.

“He has undoubted ability and stepped up to the challenge. He also dealt very well with the mental side and the pressures involved.

“He had a very good season and we were all disappointed to see him get injured. We hope he will come back fit and able to push on again. ”

Howe also sanctioned a new contract for Steve Cook, the defender penning a three-year deal following his impressive first campaign in the top flight.

The 25-year-old missed just two league games and ended the season with four goals, including scoring in crucial wins against Southampton, Swansea and Aston Villa.

Howe said: “Overall, he had a very good season, he was a consistent performer for us and grew as the season progressed.

“He has crammed in a lot during a relatively short career. It is some achievement for a young player to have such a consistent run of games at this level.

“I believe his best years are ahead of him and think there is definite room for improvement in his game.

"I am looking forward to working with him over the next few years to hopefully see him fulfil his potential.”

Cherries have announced three pre-season friendlies so far and will visit Portsmouth on Saturday, July 23 before travelling to Reading on Friday, July 29. Howe's team will host Cardiff City at Vitality Stadium on Saturday, July 30.