EDDIE Howe says Steve Cook’s career and game are “moving in the right direction” due to his consistently exemplary approach to his training.

Cook has played every minute of Cherries’ current Premier League campaign, having missed only two of their top-flight matches last term.

And despite Howe’s side’s recent defensive travails, the 25-year-old has maintained his own high standards.

Howe told the Daily Echo: “I think Cookie has had a very good season. He’s been consistent.

“Like most of our defenders, he’s improved through time, through repetition of work.

“Technically, I think he’s excellent. Athletically, he has come on this season from last season. And he’s shown a really good mentality every day in his training.

“I think that’s probably been the biggest difference between this season and last, and I think that has shown in the games. His career and his game are moving in the right direction.”