EDDIE Howe revealed Steve Cook had made a habit of playing through the pain barrier – but said Wolves had proved a match too far.

Cherries defender Cook failed to start a Premier League game for the first time in 14 months after being ruled out by a groin problem.

That meant the 27-year-old’s ever-present run in the top flight this season came to an end. Only Nathan Ake has played more league minutes for the Dorset club this campaign.

Boss Howe told the Daily Echo: “Cookie has been a model of consistency in terms of his selection.

“He has always been a player who has played through injuries where some players might not have.

“I remember a game at Crystal Palace where he thought he might have pulled a muscle in the warm-up but still played and played very well.

“But this time it got to the stage where he felt he couldn’t do himself or the team justice, so we hope he has a speedy recovery.

“Nathan had to step up (against Wolves). He had to be really good and had to lead the back four.

“His overall performance was outstanding. He was really aggressive in the air and on the floor and was very good on the ball.”