MANAGER Eddie Howe believes serious injury probably robbed former Cherries star Warren Cummings of a big move.

Cummings played alongside and under Howe at Dean Court, making more than 300 appearances for the club between October 2000 and June 2012.

The popular Scotsman, who hung up his boots at the end of last season, has been rewarded for his loyalty to Cherries with a testimonial.

Cherries will host seven-time European Champions AC Milan at Vitality Stadium on Saturday, September 3 (4pm kick-off).

Cummings, who spent two loan spells with Cherries, featured in the 2003 League Two play-off final win over Lincoln at the Millennium Stadium and also helped the club win promotion under Howe in 2010.

He was named in the PFA League One team of the season just weeks after he had sustained a compound fracture to his left leg during Cherries’ 3-0 victory at Swindon in March 2005, an injury which sidelined him for 17 months.

Howe told the Daily Echo: “Warren is such a character. He is an infectious guy who played here for a number of years and did well.

“At the time of his injury, he was outperforming the team and the league and was probably on the brink of a move.

“But he picked up a really bad injury and those moments can sometimes define careers. Unfortunately for him, it was the start of a difficult period but he fought back and never let the club down.

“Testimonials are special and this is a nice chance for everyone to get together and share in Warren’s career and the memories he gave us.”

Discussing the game, Howe added: “It is a good game during the international break and something we haven’t really done before.

“The quality of the opposition and the stature of the team are huge so that makes it very attractive.”

Tickets went on sale yesterday and no priority points are required. However, supporters must create an account to purchase tickets online if they do not already have one.

Tickets will also be available to purchase over the telephone (0344 576 1910, option 1, option 1) or in person from the ticket office in the AFC Bournemouth Superstore. There will be no in-person sales from the Pavilion.