CHERRIES midfielder Jean Francois Christophe is set for an extended spell on the sidelines after dislocating his left wrist.

The Frenchman, who is on loan from Portsmouth, is likely to be out for around three months after sustaining the injury during the reserves' midweek defeat by Bristol City.

Christophe's wrist was flexed when he raised his arm to protect his face from a full-blooded, close-range clearance inside the opening minute of the clash.

The 20-year-old was referred to a specialist after an X-ray revealed the full extent of the damage and he was due to have an operation in Portsmouth today.

Christophe is being treated by the Pompey medical staff and although he is unlikely to again feature for Cherries during his current loan spell, it is believed the club is still obliged to pay his wages.

Meanwhile, defender Neil Young has also been added to Cherries' lengthening injury list after twisting his right knee in training.

Young, who will definitely miss Saturday's League One showdown with Carlisle, will be monitored over the weekend before a decision is made as to whether he will require a scan.

The absence of both Christophe and Young for the visit of Carlisle leaves boss Kevin Bond with just 13 fit outfield players at his disposal.

As a result, assistant manager Rob Newman will be forced out of retirement to be named among the Cherries substitute against the Cumbrians. Youth team defender Billy Franks is also injured.