EDDIE Howe hailed Cherries’ January transfer business and admitted: “It was a really good window.”

Cherries brought in Chris Mepham and Dominic Solanke on permanent deals, while Nathaniel Clyne signed on loan from Liverpool.

The likes of Callum Wilson, Nathan Ake, David Brooks and Ryan Fraser – who had all been linked with moves – remained at Vitality Stadium.

In terms of high-profile outgoings, Tyrone Mings went to Aston Villa, Jermain Defoe to Rangers and Marc Pugh to Hull – all on loan.

Boss Howe said: “Going back a few months, we felt we weren’t going to be active in the market and were hopeful we wouldn’t have to be.

“Then, with the injuries we suffered in the build-up to Christmas with Lewis Cook and Simon Francis and others, it became a necessity to act.

“I’m really pleased we got the players in which we did, early. Nathaniel Clyne has been a huge signing and Dominic Solanke and Chris Mepham will, I think, prove excellent signings as well.

“It was a really good window for us.”

Mings, who has made just two Premier League starts this season, switched to Championship outfit Villa on deadline day.

Asked what he wanted the defender to gain from his move to the Championship club, Howe said: "Quite simply, game time. He has been very unlucky with injuries since signing for us.

"We're very keen to see him play a run of games and be consistent in that. He has the tools to be a top player so, hopefully, he can show that during his time with Villa."

Howe revealed he would make a late call on the fitness of midfielder Jefferson Lerma ahead of tomorrow’s trip to Cardiff City.

The Colombian international missed Wednesday’s 4-0 win over Chelsea due to an ankle complaint.

Howe said: “We will see how Jefferson is today and make a late call on him. Apart from that, I think we are as we were.”

Striker Solanke took his place on the bench against the Blues having recovered from injury following his £17.5million switch from Liverpool.

Howe said: “I wouldn’t say he is 100 per cent fit but he is working towards that.

“It’s difficult when you have a lot of games to prepare for to build fitness and resilience. But we are pleased to have him available.”