FOUR of Cherries injured stars are edging closer to a first-team return after stepping up their recoveries this week.

David Brooks, Arnaut Danjuma, Chris Mepham and Lloyd Kelly were pictured taking part in "some small running exercises on the training pitches" in what the club describe as "small, yet really positive steps in their recovery".

None have yet rejoined full training with the squad ahead of Saturday's crunch clash with Chelsea at Vitality Stadium (3pm), but are closing in on returning to the group for the run-in, with just 11 games remaining as Cherries battle to avoid relegation from the Premier League.

Danjuma has not featured for Cherries since early December, suffering a foot injury during a clash with Liverpool. Following a lengthy period away from the club receiving treatment in Holland and Qatar, the winger returned to the club this month.

Wales international Brooks has not kicked a ball competitively this season following ankle ligament damage suffered in a pre-season match at Brentford. Speaking earlier this month, Wales boss Giggs said: "With Brooksy he's looking to be back training in March."

Mepham's run in the side was cut short after he was forced to undergo knee surgery having picked up an injury in January's FA Cup win over Luton Town.

Kelly has featured just once for Cherries' first-team during an injury-plagued campaign since his move from Bristol City. That appearance came in the Carabao Cup loss at Burton Albion in September.