EDDIE Howe insisted it was “too early” to say Harry Arter had played his final game for Cherries and added: “He will go down as one of the best centre midfielders ever to play for the club.”

The Cherries boss was speaking after the 29-year-old had last week agreed a season-long loan with his brother-in-law Scott Parker at Championship Fulham.

Arter on Saturday put in a man-of-the-match display during the Cottagers’ 2-0 victory over Blackburn, recording an assist for Tom Cairney after 35 minutes of his debut.

As part of the deal, Fulham have an obligation to buy the Sidcup-born star next summer, depending on certain performance-based criteria.

This is believed to include whether or not the west London side seal promotion.

Snapped up by Howe for just £4,000 from non-league Woking in 2010, Arter has played 255 games for Cherries and scored 29 goals. He signed a fresh four-year contract in July 2017.

Asked about the Republic of Ireland international’s loan departure, Howe told the Daily Echo: “I don’t think people should ever lose sight of players who give so much to a football club. Harry is certainly in that category for us.

“He will go down as one of the best centre midfielders ever to play for the club in my opinion.

“I think it’s too early to say he’s played his last game. There could be more twists and turns in Harry’s Bournemouth career – let’s wait and see.

“But certainly everyone here from top to bottom at the club wishes him well.”

Arter has featured in Cherries’ past two pre-season schedules but, having spent last season on loan at Cardiff, he has not made a competitive appearance for Cherries since January 2018.

The former Charlton youngster last week cited “family reasons” as playing a big part in his switch to Craven Cottage.

He said: "With all my family involved in the club it would be nice to be successful, for Scott and for myself. My little girl lives up here so it's a great move for me for family reasons.

“I've always had a desire to play for a club in London. Even since Scott signed here five or six years ago, I've always come and watched Fulham and it's great to be part of the club."

Discussing the deal further, Howe added: “I think it’s a great move for him.

“Of course, his relationship with Scott Parker was pivotal in that and I think it’s a great match for Harry and for Fulham.

“They will have a player who is very motivated to do well. I think we all know my thoughts on Harry and my feelings for him as a player. I hope he does very well this season.”