EDDIE Howe challenged winger Jordon Ibe to become a consistent match-winner for Cherries.

The talented 22-year-old has returned to training ahead of the clash with former club Liverpool tomorrow (5.30pm) after illness kept him out against Crystal Palace.

Former Reds star Ibe made a reported £15million move to Cherries in the summer of 2016 but described as "very poor" his first season in Dorset, having made just 13 Premier League starts and failed to complete a full game in the top flight.

But the 22-year-old has enjoyed a radical improvement during his second season at Vitality Stadium. Ibe leads Cherries’ assist totals in the league with six and has already played 713 more minutes than last season.

Asked about the Londoner’s progress, Howe told the Daily Echo: “Jordon has been a big player for us this season, he continues to improve and I am excited about the possibilities for him in the future.

“He has been more level with his displays and what he has offered. I have not worked with many more players who have that kind of ability or potential to be real match-winners.

“It’s getting him to deliver it day in, day out on the biggest stage. For any young player that is the challenge, that is what Jordon will, hopefully, continue to improve on.

“I still feel there is so much more to come from him because he is such a talented player. He has so much to give and a lot of areas to improve to become the player he wants to be.

“I am always excited about what Jordon can deliver because I believe he is a player of rich potential.

“He has that mix of pace and technical ability which is always sought after when you are managing in the Premier League.

“To be a big player for us on transitions and the counter-attack is definitely good. Also in tight areas he has the ability to find a really good pass and is a really good dribbler with the ball.”

Having played for Charlton and Wycombe at youth level, Ibe was snapped up by Liverpool at the age of 16 and originally joined the under-18 set-up on Merseyside.

He made 58 senior appearances during his time at Anfield, scoring four times and providing seven assists.

“Whether he has anything to prove, I don’t know,” added Howe.

“I think he would like to put on a good performance if he plays. That would be natural when you go back to a former club.

“He was taken ill on the day of the last game and we missed him in the early part of this week. He came into training towards the tail end of the week and we are pleased to have him back.

“It has been a bit stop-start over the past few weeks for him. He picked up an injury as well, it will be good to see Jordon on a more consistent basis and hopefully he will get back to his very best.”