CHERRIES boss Eddie Howe was tonight awaiting further news on Callum Wilson and Tokelo Rantie before deciding whether he may have to delve into the loan market.

The two strikers were both second-half casualties during today’s eventful 2-2 draw with Championship rivals Ipswich Town at Dean Court.

Wilson, back following international duty with England under-21s, was replaced by Rantie in the 62nd minute after feeling discomfort in his hamstring.

But just seconds after coming off the bench, Rantie was crocked when he fell awkwardly having been sandwiched between Ipswich defenders Luke Chambers and Tommy Smith.

The South African required a lengthy spell of treatment on the pitch before he was carried off on a stretcher wearing an oxygen mask.

Speaking at his post-match interview, Howe confirmed Rantie had sustained a suspected dislocated right shoulder and had been taken to hospital.

Howe said: “The two injuries are huge blows because they are our two number nines. In any game, you are unfortunate to lose two players in the same position within a matter of minutes.

“Tokelo has done so well and worked so hard to get himself in good form and, if he is going to be out for a period of time, it will be a huge blow.

“Callum felt something in his hamstring. He was not sure whether it was a pull, a bit of cramp or whether it was a nerve feeling. Until we know the full diagnoses, it is difficult to tell.”

Asked by the Daily Echo whether he would consider trying to bring in an emergency loan signing ahead of next week’s deadline, Howe replied: “We will have a look at it. It would foolish of me to jump the decision and say I am going to have to bring someone in.

“We will have to see how long the respective players are going to be out for. It would leave us very short if both were out for a period of time so, potentially, that could be an avenue for us. We would have to look at what was available and try to make the best decision.”