Cook would not want to miss the Brighton game

There is common agreement among many an AFCB fan that Steve Cook is in the midst of his best season for the Cherries. Only last week his performances were said to be courting the attentions of Premier League clubs like Norwich City, Cardiff City and Crystal Palace. How cruel a blow was it then to see him being stretchered off the Dean Court pitch at the end of the Derby match? The fact that Cook was in the box in extra time trying to gain his team a point tells you everything about Cookie.

Steve Cook is one man AFCB really want to keep in the team.

It's the fixture list that really hurts though. AFCB's next game is against Brighton & Hove Albion, Cook's former club and he will be devastated if he has to sit the game out. Of course he would still have the prospect of playing them at the Amex on New Years Day, but I am sure he would have made a mental note of next weekend's derby game. Neil Perrett of the Echo tweeted that the injury to Steve Cook may not be as bad as first expected and that he might be okay to play next weekend. Let's hope he is correct, because AFCB need a fit Steve Cook.

What Cook adds to the team is amazing spirit and effort. He has also developed a talent for being the last defender and making important match saving tackles. Good in the air and equipped with a special long throw which even Steve McClaren picked up on, who wouldn't want to have the likes of Steve Cook in their team?

I don't think I'll be alone waiting and hoping to hear the club confirm that Steve's injury is only bruising and nothing more serious.