EDDIE Howe insisted Jermain Defoe was having a “massive impact” behind the scenes at Cherries and backed the experienced striker to play a key role in the Premier League.

Former Tottenham and Portsmouth star Defoe has played just 13 minutes in the top flight this season but has started both of Cherries’ games in the Carabao Cup.

The 35-year-old’s last goal for the Dorset club came in a 2-2 draw at Watford at the end of March.

However, Cherries boss Howe revealed Defoe’s off-pitch attitude had been a big boost for his side.

Speaking ahead of tomorrow’s home clash with Crystal Palace (8pm), Howe told Sky Sports: “Jermain has been really good behind the scenes. He has used his experience in a really positive way.

“I’ve seen a really good response from him this season in the respect he has put his arm round other players in moments when we have really needed that experience to shine through.

“I remember moments when he has been on the bench and he has had a really positive word with the team.

“Yes, he may not be impacting as much on the pitch as he would like but he’s having a massive impact away from that.

“For us to be a successful team, we need everyone within the squad to be contributing in some way.”

Howe has long favoured an experienced voice in the dressing room – the likes of Sylvain Distin and Ian Harte having previously filled the role.

Asked if he considered a player’s off-field influence when recruiting, Howe said: “When you sign a player, you look at a whole host of things, not just the playing ability but the character.

“Our vision for Jermain was that he would have a huge impact on young players and the young strikers we have – that he would educate them in how to live their lives and how to approach the game.

“Of course, Jermain is still an outstanding player in his own right but you need those key attributes in your squad and he is a good older professional.”

Defoe on more than one occasion came close to breaking his seasonal duck during the 3-2 Carabao Cup win over Blackburn on Tuesday.

And Howe feels the signs indicate that the goals will come.

He said: “Jermain scored key goals last season and every goal made a massive contribution to the team.

“Where we would have been without those goals, we will never find out, but he had a massive role in us achieving what we did last season.

“I’ve got no doubt he will do the same again.

“Jermain showed against Blackburn on Tuesday that he is still a threat.

“His movement was very good, he had a number of chances to score and I always back the strikers when they get in those positions – over time they will hit the net so that was really good sign.”