BOSS Eddie Howe revealed Brad Smith had been “in a good place” since returning to match action.

The former Liverpool full-back made his comeback having suffered a hip injury while on international duty with Australia in October.

The defender went to ground just eight minutes into a World Cup play-off against Syria in Sydney and was replaced by Huddersfield's Aaron Mooy.

But having returned to the first-team squad and played 45 minutes in the 2-2 FA Cup third round draw against Wigan, Howe insisted Smith had a spring in his step.

He told the Daily Echo: “That feeling of playing games and being back 100 per cent fit and free from injury is only truly tested in games.

“When you get that feeling and feel good again, it gives you a lift, so he has been in a good place.”

Smith also received more match minutes on Friday as Cherries’ under-21s triumphed 3-0 in a friendly at Queen’s Park Rangers.

He was joined by international team-mate Adam Federici, who saved a penalty in his first appearance since recovering from a knee problem.