CHERRIES boss Eddie Howe expects Lewis Grabban to depart during the January transfer window.

The striker opted to cut short his loan spell with Sunderland having netted 12 goals in 20 appearances for the Black Cats.

Cherries confirmed they had "mutually agreed to terminate" the frontman's season-long loan, with the Dorset club invoking a recall clause.

The Daily Echo understands Grabban was keen to see the clause activated as he attempts to swiftly secure a permanent move.

Howe said: "I think Lewis will move on in this window but who it will be and when we don't know."

Meanwhile, Howe admitted an FA Cup replay was “not ideal” but said he had no regrets about making wholesale changes against Wigan.

Howe brought in eight fresh players for the third-round tie, with Steve Cook’s late header sealing a 2-2 draw.

Cherries now have an extra fixture in their schedule with a replay upcoming. But Howe said he preferred to remain in the cup than avoid a replay.

Asked about his team selection, he said: “I thought the decisions were right for us and I don’t regret them.

“It was an opportunity to see some different players, an opportunity for some players to keep playing and an opportunity to rest players who are carrying injuries.

“I don’t think a replay is ideal for us and I don’t think it’s ideal for them. But it is what it is and we want to be in the competition so we have to deal with the replay and we’ll try to win it.”