JACK Wilshere revealed a striking first meeting with boss Eddie Howe had decided his short-term destiny lay with Cherries.

The on-loan Arsenal midfielder, 24, made his competitive debut as a second-half substitute on Saturday as Cherries beat West Brom 1-0 – their first Premier League success of the campaign.

After replacing Jordon Ibe in the 62nd minute, Wilshere showed glimpses of his class in the pocket of space behind striker and match-winner Callum Wilson.

And after his first taste of action in the red and black, the England international gave a ringing endorsement of his temporary manager’s credentials.

Wilshere said: “There were a few clubs interested but when I found out Bournemouth were in for me, I spoke with my friend Benik (Afobe) and a few of the other lads.

“They all spoke very highly of the manager and as soon as we met, I wanted to work with him, for him to be my coach and to improve me as a player.

“It was not what he said, more the way he conducted himself. After being here for 10 days and seeing him on the training pitch, I felt I could definitely improve here.

“He is a great coach. He is honest with you and takes you through clips of training to show you things you can improve. For me, he is the perfect coach to come to work for.”

Wilshere’s switch prompted a barrage of references to his injury woes and questions over his choice, comments he was quick to dismiss.

“I don’t really read what people say. If they criticise me, they criticise me,” he added.

“It was down to me and I knew what was best for my career. I could have sat at Arsenal, I spoke with the manager who said I could play but he couldn’t promise me that.

“That was not good enough for me, I wanted to play week in week out. I am at the stage of my career where I need to do that.

“Bournemouth have given me the opportunity so I am just looking forward to the challenge.”

His omission from the starting XI was met with a mixed reaction from Cherries fans on social media but despite yearning to add to just one top-flight start in two seasons, Wilshere insisted he would remain patient.

“I spoke to the manager in the week. He has a plan for me that we agreed on,” said Wilshere, who confirmed he would move to Bournemouth area for the duration of his stint.

“I want to play but I am feeling good at the minute and training well. I was just happy to come on and play my part.

“The most important thing was the three points. I have watched a few of the games and speaking to the lads, they have been frustrated by playing well and not getting the wins so we needed this one.

“I have missed almost 18 months of football. I haven’t played week in week out in the Premier League for some time, I’ve come back, played the odd game and picked up an injury.

“I have missed the Premier League, the challenge of it, the fight, the fans and just being involved.”