EDDIE Howe admitted speculation linking Lewis Cook with a move had not come as a surprise – but the midfielder said Cherries remained his "full focus".

The Under-20 World Cup winner has enjoyed a breakthrough season in the middle of the park and has been linked with a £20million switch to big guns Liverpool.

Former Cherries and Liverpool midfielder Jamie Redknapp told the Daily Mail he believed Cook would 'in a year or so' play for one of the big six.

The former Leeds United ace, handed his first senior England call in November, could be included when boss Gareth Southgate names his latest squad tomorrow.

Asked if transfer speculation was to be expected in the wake of Cook's positive displays, Howe said: "It's probably something you expect to see.

"I think Lewis has been outstanding this season. He has got better week in, week out and is soaking everything up.

"Even the disappointing games where we don't perform as a team will enhance his learning. He has got a great mentality and nothing seems to faze him.

"For a young player, that's quite difficult to find and his importance to the team is growing every week.

"He has already had unbelievable experiences in his career. He played a lot of games for Leeds, earned senior international recognition and won the Under-20 World Cup and now he's doing well in the Premier League.

"It's been a great start to his career."

Quizzed about the rumours, Cook said: "I'm enjoying my football here and Bournemouth is my full focus."