BOSS Eddie Howe believes Jefferson Lerma will bring “aggressiveness” to Cherries’ midfield once he has been unleashed on the Premier League.

Club record buy Lerma, who cost £25million from Levante, sat out Cherries’ curtain-raiser against Cardiff as he continues to build up his fitness.

The 23-year-old returned to his home in Colombia after featuring in all four of their games at the World Cup, including the last 16 clash against England.

Howe confirmed he would hold back the combative midfielder until he was fully match fit but did not put a time frame on when he expected to have Lerma available.

“I think he will bring a real physicality and athleticism to our midfield,” said Howe.

“He has a really good engine, he is a box-to-box player and is very good technically.

“He has good experience and has played in a very good league and for his country so there is certainly a lot to like.

“He has the profile that we are looking for, he is a good age and we think he will improve with us so I am excited to see him play.”

Lerma collected three separate suspensions after picking up no fewer than 19 yellow cards in 29 games in La Liga last season.

Asked what this said about him as a player, Howe replied: “He is certainly competitive.

“Now, we have to be careful that doesn’t overspill into red cards but he seems like he has a great personality and is a very relaxed and down-to-earth lad.

“But, on the pitch, he wants to win and he will compete so I think he will bring that aggressiveness that we possibly need into our midfield.”

Fellow new recruit Diego Rico will serve the second of a three-match ban – carried over from last season with Leganes – when Cherries visit West Ham on Saturday.