Midfielder Cook keen to take his chance after earning back starting spot

The England international was left on the bench by boss Eddie Howe for the Dorset club’s opening six top-flight fixtures.

Cook stressed the requirement to “be patient” having played just 29 Premier League minutes in August and September.

He has since earned back his place among the starting XI, featuring alongside club-record signing Jefferson Lerma in victories over Crystal Palace and Watford.

Reflecting on his time out of the team, the 21-year-old told the Daily Echo: “I wasn’t frustrated, you just have to be patient. It’s such a hard league you have to take your chances.

“You want to be playing in the Premier League and, every time you get that chance, you have to take it with both hands and enjoy it because it’s a tough ask.

“The lads performed well in some of the pre-season games. The starting team got their chance and went on a run, so I couldn’t really complain. If the team is winning games then everyone benefits.

“Everyone who has been in midfield this year has been outstanding and it’s a great bunch of lads, so the rotation is healthy.”

Asked whether he had spoken to boss Howe about being left out, Cook replied: “He just said to me I needed to play my game, don’t overcomplicate things or try to impress too much.

“He knows what I can do. I just need to show that, be free, and enjoy my football. When I did get my chance, I took it.”

Howe said: “I never had a problem with Lewis’s attitude. He’s a great lad and very professional.

“He has got his head down, worked hard, had to be patient and waited for his opportunity.

“But you do all that work and show a good attitude so, when you come into the team, you are able to perform.”

Cook is in line to feature for England under-21s when they visit face Scotland in a European Championship qualifier at Tynecastle tomorrow (5.30pm).

He skippered the Young Lions on Thursday as they booked their place at next summer's tournament in Italy and San Marino with a 7-0 rout of Andorra.