BOSS Eddie Howe revealed knee injury victims Lewis Cook and Simon Francis had followed in the footsteps of Callum Wilson by travelling to America to continue their rehab.

The duo both ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in their right knees while in action for Cherries during December.

But with Cook and Francis now entering the “last stage” of their recovery process, they have flown Stateside to work with world-renowned rehabilitation specialist Bill Knowles.

Wilson, a victim of two serious knee injuries, visited HP Sports director of reconditioning and athletic development Knowles during his second rehab in July 2017.

He has since gone on to feature for England, as well as finish top-scorer for the Dorset club in the Premier League last season with 14 goals.

Asked for an update on Francis and Cook, Howe told the Daily Echo: “They are now in America in the last stage of their rehab with a specialist in terms of running technique and making sure their running gait is perfect for when they come back.

“I think Lewis is still slightly ahead of Simon because of time – I think he is probably about four weeks ahead.

“I’m very keen to get them both back involved with the squad.”

He added: “Callum’s experiences have definitely helped us formulate plans for both players that will be better, hopefully, than would have been without those guidelines we had from Callum’s last time.

“Bill made a big impact on Callum and it made sense to send them (Francis and Cook) back there.”