Bournemouth star Nathan Ake to miss the rest of the season through injury

Bournemouth have been dealt a crushing blow after star defender Nathan Ake was ruled out for the remainder of the season.

The Dutchman played an influential role in the Cherries emphatic 4-1 comeback victory over Leicester City, but was left hobbling to the sidelines on the cusp of half-time.

After making a last-gasp tackle to thwart Jamie Vardy, Ake landed on the turf clutching his leg and rapidly needed medical attention.

It has now been confirmed that the central defender has suffered a muscle strain and will play no further part in the remaining games.

Manager Eddie Howe said after the game: ‘It doesn’t look too good.

‘With such a short time left of the season, it looks like it’s going to be difficult for him to play.’ 

Returning to the stands in the second half Ake was spotted on crutches, with his leg heavily padded.

It comes as a huge blow to the Cherries, who still have an outside chance of salvaging their Premier League status.

The shock rout of Leicester has moved Howe’s side to within three points of climbing out of the relegation zone, with three fixtures remaining.

The victory over the Foxes puts them 18th on 31 points – just three behind Watford and West Ham on 34 who play each other at London Stadium on Friday. 

Bournemouth however have their work cut out, with a trip to Manchester City next on the agenda.

Thereafter the south coast side face a local derby against neighbours Southampton, before finishing the campaign with a clash away at Everton.