CHERRIES boss Eddie Howe believes a loan spell could benefit Charlie Sheringham as the striker continues his return from a lengthy injury layoff.
Sheringham took his first steps on the comeback trail when he was given a 45-minute run-out during Cherries’ Hampshire Senior Cup win at AFC Totton 11 days ago.
The 24-year-old had been sidelined for 14 months since fracturing a bone in his foot when he netted his maiden goal in the Football League during Cherries’ 1-1 draw at Brentford on Boxing Day 2011.
Howe, who admitted he was reluctant to arrange too many development squad games for fear of losing players to injury, said he was weighing up the prospect of sending out Sheringham. “Charlie may need a loan period to get some games for the last part of his rehabilitation,” said Howe. “He has been out for a long time and has done well in training. He has looked bright and sharp but has only had one game.
“I think the next stage for him will be to get some regular football but we will have to wait and see. If we get a couple of injuries, we may have to re-assess it but I think it would be a good path for him.”
Sheringham, a prolific goalscorer at non-league level, joined Cherries from Conference South outfit Dartford in October 2011 and was restricted to just six appearances, including four from the bench, before he was struck down by injury.
He told the Daily Echo: “I am fit and it is just a case of getting my match fitness up. It has been very up and down for me over the past 14 months. It was a nightmare to get injured after I had just got into the team. Hopefully, I am at the back-end of it now.”
Signed by Lee Bradbury, Sheringham has seen the landscape change dramatically during his time on the sidelines. He played no part under former boss Paul Groves and must now try to prove himself to Howe.
Sheringham said: “It has been difficult because I haven’t been involved with the first team as much as I would have liked. I have seen new co-owners come in and managers come and go.
“I have been on the periphery and it has been tough. I need to impress the manager and try to get myself in the team. Ever since I came here, I have always been determined to give it my best shot.”
Sheringham, who is out of contract in the summer, added: “Although that is in the back of my mind, the main thing for me is getting fit and making sure my foot is all right. I am not too worried about the contract because what will be, will be. I believe in myself and believe I can play at this level so, hopefully, it will come.”
