Ten years ago, Lewis Cook arrived on the south coast as one of England's brightest young talents. A decade later, he's still integral to an ever advancing AFC Bournemouth side. From injury setbacks all the way to playing a part in Cherries' first ever European qualification, Lewis remains a key cog.
When the Cherries signed Lewis Cook from Leeds United on the 9th July 2016, it was clear they were getting hold of one of the country's most highly rated young midfielders.
Lewis had come through Leeds United's academy, making his senior debut at just 17 years old in August 2014. Despite his age, he quickly established himself as a regular for the club and in the Championship he quickly impressed. His composure on the ball, intelligent passing and ability to dictate the tempo of games from midfield was attracting the interest of many Premier League sides.
Cook was named the Football League Young Player of the Year for the 2014/15 season, at the time becoming the youngest recipient of the award. He also captained England at various youth levels, and was earning a reputation as one of the nation's most exciting prospects.
Lewis Cook Signs For AFC Bournemouth
Signed by Eddie Howe for less than ten million pounds following the Cherries' first ever Premier League survival, Cook was brought in as part of the club's long term vision. While opportunities came gradually during his first two seasons, his quality was evident, and he soon established himself as a composed and technically gifted presence in the heart of the Bournemouth midfield.
In December 2018 his progress was cruelly halted after suffering a serious ACL injury and the lengthy rehabilitation process kept him out for almost a year. When Lewis returned he did so with the same determination that had defined his early career, gradually rediscovering the form that had once earned him senior England recognition.
Following the Cherries' relegation in 2020, Cook could easily have sought a move elsewhere. Instead, he remained on the south coast and was a vital part of the side that earned promotion back to the Premier League under Scott Parker.
Another Rebirth - Under Andoni Iraola
Once Andoni Iraola joined the Cherries to try and take the club to that next level, Lewis was always going to find himself part of the new gaffers plans. His versatility saw him not only excel in midfield but also at right full back, whilst his leadership qualities continue to make him one of the squad's most trusted senior figures. It's been a long journey that now sees Bournemouth in Europe, something that would have seemed a pipe dream when Lewis signed.
Only last year Cook made his 250th appearance for Bournemouth, confirming his continued presence in and amongst an impressive Cherries squad.
Now, exactly ten years after first pulling on the red and black, Lewis remains an influential figure in a Bournemouth side preparing for European football for the first time it's history. Having overcome plenty of setbacks, managerial changes and shifting expectations, his story has become one of loyalty, perseverance and consistency.
A journey that has cemented his place among the club's most respected servants and even a decade on, Cook will be determined to remain vital for new head coach Marco Rose going forward.
