EDDIE Howe revealed Brad Smith was unlikely to require surgery on the hip injury he sustained on international duty.
But the Cherries boss did indicate the full-back would be sidelined for “a period of time”.
Smith picked up the problem during Australia's World Cup qualifying play-off against Syria earlier this month.
The former Liverpool man has featured in Cherries’ Carabao Cup games against Birmingham and Brighton this season.
Giving an update on the 23-year-old, Howe said: “Brad has seen a specialist.
“We think he won’t need surgery but he is going to be out for a period of time.”
Ryan Fraser is set to undergo a fitness test ahead of the clash with Stoke. The Scotland winger has been battling a hamstring problem.
Defender Tyrone Mings continues to fight a back problem.
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