FIT-again Rhoys Wiggins insists Cherries are determined to send out a message to their League One rivals by taking a bite out of the Terriers this afternoon.

Wiggins is back in Lee Bradbury’s squad after overcoming a calf injury and will battle with club captain Warren Cummings for the left-back berth.

The defender is keen to help Cherries continue their fine form under new boss Bradbury when fellow promotion hopefuls Huddersfield Town visit Dean Court (3pm).

He wants to help show the rest of the third tier that Cherries mean business by securing a good result against Lee Clark’s high-flying outfit.

Wiggins told the Echo: “They are doing well. They are three points behind with a game in hand, so it is more or less a six-pointer.

“The lads know how vital it would be to move six points clear of them and we’re definitely looking to go out and make a statement to the rest of the league.

“We had a good result against Brighton and, apart from Charlton, I don’t think we’ve lost too many against the top sides.

“I think we’ve been unlucky not to win on a few occasions as well. Our home form is great so we will definitely be full of confidence for the top teams coming down.

“There is a bit of a gap between the play-offs and seventh spot now and we just need to keep winning and getting points on the board.”

Wiggins played as Cherries defeated league leaders Brighton on January 22 but was then forced on to the sidelines by a problem in his right calf muscle.

He made a brief substitute appearance in the win at Walsall last week and could regain a starting place today, although Cummings has helped Cherries claim 10 points against Plymouth, Swindon, Leyton Orient and Walsall since he came into the team.

Discussing his absence, Wiggins added: “It was frustrating but I have played a lot of games. If that is the only injury I get this season, I will be happy.

“Wally has done well so it might be tough. I don’t know what Bradders is thinking but whether I’m on the bench or playing, I’m sure I will play a part.

“Huddersfield is a good game to look forward to, as well as Tuesday against Sheffield Wednesday.”