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Chelsea recalled Nathan Ake from his loan spell in January, as the Blues needed cover in the defence and wing-back department.

Ake’s teammate at Bournemouth Steve Cook has revealed that Ake’s ability to play different positions made Chelsea cut short his loan spell with the Cherries.

He said: “It was his ability to play in a few positions. He did very well for us.

“I think to cover themselves, to bring a player of that quality back to the club, shows wthat they can do.

“It’s a shame because I think he needs to be playing football.

“But he’s Chelsea’s player at the end of the day and they’re going to go on to win the league.

“If they had an injury in the back three, or even left wing-back, he’d slot in nicely.”

Ake has only played in two FA Cup games since he was recalled from loan.