CHERRIES’ League Two survival hopes were yesterday dealt a blow with the news that defender Joel Ward could be sidelined for up to eight weeks.

The Portsmouth loanee was stretchered off in the early stages of Cherries’ 1-0 win over Shrewsbury Town at the weekend.

The injury, sustained after the defensive prospect landed awkwardly following an aerial challenge, was originally thought to be ankle ligament damage.

And initial fears were confirmed, meaning the right-back will be unavailable for much of the League Two club’s run-in.

“It’s a real blow for us because Joel has been excellent of late in the right-back role,” manager Eddie Howe told the Echo.

“First and foremost, he’s a very, very good defender. He’s very athletic, good in the air and he’s really impressed me.

“He’s got a great attitude and he was improving all the time and I think his confidence was rising with every game.

“We’re really disappointed to lose him because he was one of the mainstays of our defence.”

With Lee Bradbury also out and a lack of recognised right-backs available, new signing Anton Robinson, who replaced Ward on Saturday, could be called upon to play in the unfamiliar role again this weekend.

Meanwhile, Howe was impressed by Poole Town striker Charlie Austin, who started his trial yesterday.

Speaking about the prolific Wessex League forward, Howe said: “He showed a willingness to work hard. Technically he’s decent – very good in the air – so I was pleased with him.

“I’ll speak to him and see how long he wants to stay for but I’d like to have a look at him for the week.

“He looks like his attitude’s there, which is the main thing.”

Howe is also looking at Crystal Palace forward Simon Thomas and Wolves frontman Ashley Hemmings.