CHERRIES star Warren Cummings admits he could face "no bigger test" than Premiership opposition for his comeback.

The popular Scotsman is set to return to action when he lines up against Everton in a friendly at Dean Court on Saturday (2pm kick-off).

Cummings has been sidelined for almost three months after having an operation to remove a plate from his troublesome left leg at the start of November.

But having felt no ill effects since returning to full training six weeks ago, the 26-year-old is now ready to take a significant step on the road to recovery.

Cummings told the Daily Echo last night: "The operation was quite clearly a success because my leg feels fantastic, just like it did before I broke it.

"The specialist said I had to train for six weeks and I've been able to do everything. It's feeling great and I've been champing at the bit to start playing again."

Cummings, who sustained a compound fracture to his leg in March 2005, added: "The manager must have been annoyed with me because I've kept on at him to let me play.

"But although I've been getting really frustrated, rightly enough, he said that we shouldn't go against specialist advice just in case anything went wrong.

"The six weeks have passed now and I can't wait. We are really lucky to get Everton here because they are a big club with a lot of quality players.

"Unless you are lucky enough to play in the Premiership every week, you don't get the chance to face such quality opposition."

Cummings has always maintained he would be able to rediscover his best form once his rehabilitation was complete and his confidence is undiminished.

"Although I always believed I would get back to normal, the plate restricted me too much and I've got absolutely no doubt that people will see a different player.

"I was finding it difficult to cope with the pain I was getting but I'm pain-free now. I'm running a lot better and feel a lot better both mentally and physically."

Cummings is expected to be joined on the comeback trail by Shaun Cooper and Karl Broadhurst who have both returned to training this week after recovering from their respective hamstring and neck injuries.

But Stephen Purches (hamstring), Eddie Howe (knee), Callum Hart (ankle) and Taz Khalil (shoulder) are unlikely to play any part against the Toffees.

Previewing the clash, Cherries assistant boss Rob Newman said: "It's been a long week because we were disappointed with the Huddersfield result.

"But this is a great opportunity for our players to pit their wits against a full squad of Premiership players.

"It will give them a chance to show what they can do and for us as staff to look at who really wants to play at Chesterfield the following week.

"It should be a good workout for our players and hopefully it can answer some questions."