BOSS Eddie Howe admitted he was uncertain of having Nathaniel Clyne available for selection before the end of the season.

The on-loan Liverpool star was left out of Cherries’ 1-0 home defeat to Fulham on Saturday with a hamstring problem.

England international Clyne was an unused substitute at Brighton a week previously.

Giving an update on the 28-year-old, Howe said: “Nathaniel’s been carrying a hamstring injury for a couple of weeks now, so he missed out (against Fulham).”

Asked whether the defender would be available again this campaign, the boss replied: “We hope so. But I don’t know at this moment whether that will be an option for us. We certainly hope to get him back very soon.”

Clyne has made 12 appearances for the Dorset club since his January switch from Anfield.

Howe had seen his full-back options depleted against the Cottagers. Adam Smith sustained a knee injury ahead of the contest and Junior Stanislas was forced off after 23 minutes.

Meanwhile, the boss confirmed winger Jordon Ibe was left out of the squad due to tactical reasons.