EDDIE Howe will make a late call on whether to include Joshua King and Jack Stacey in his squad to face Sheffield United on Sunday (2pm).

The pair have been ruled out since December, when both were forced off during defeat at Brighton due to hamstring problems.

But having now returned to the group, the duo could feature at Bramall Lane.

"Josh King and Jack Stacey have trained this week, so they're both getting close," Howe confirmed.

"We'll have to make decisions on whether we involve them or not, but (we're) pleased with their progress."

One man who will not feature against Sheffield United is former Blade Brooks, still recovering after ankle surgery.

"No, David Brooks won’t play in this game. He’s still some way away," said Howe.

Asked how long it could be before Brooks returns to action, Howe added: "It’s very difficult for me to comment, I don’t actually know.

"He is back in England. He was running yesterday on grass for the first time I think, so that gives you an idea that he’s still got some way to go."

Arnaut Danjuma is also back in England after his foot problem but won't feature against the Blades, while Jefferson Lerma is suspended.

The Cherries boss said: "I think Junior Stanislas is continuing his return to fitness. He was on the bench last week, which was a great boost for us.

"With Kingy close and Jack Stacey close, the squad has a stronger feel and a stronger look to it now. Obviously we hope that remains and we’ve got a group of players then behind those other players that have returned that are a bit further back, but hopefully after the break that we’re having they’ll be that little bit closer."

He added: "David Brooks it’s still unknown when he’s going to be back. Arnaut Danjuma we’re going to have to be very careful with, Chris Mepham has been given the time that he’s been given, that’s three months.

"But with Nathan Ake coming back, Adam Smith, Josh King, Jack Stacey, at least the training group is a lot stronger.

"That’s been noticeable in training for me and it probably makes you realise how thin on the ground of players we were during that Christmas period."