Cranie set for Bournemouth loan

Cranie played for England in 2003's World Youth Championships

Bournemouth are set to sign England Under-20 defender Martin Cranie on loan from neighbours Southampton.

Cranie has made just one Premiership start and one substitute appearance in the Carling Cup for Saints.

The 18-year-old will put pen to paper on a month's deal when he joins the Cherries for training on Friday.

Injuries to Warren Cummings, Stephen Purches and Jason Tindall have left Bournemouth boss Sean O'Driscoll with just four fit defenders.

One of those four, captain Karl Broadhurst, is a slight doubt for Saturday's home game against Barnsley because of a groin problem - as is striker Steve Fletcher (knee).

O'Driscoll told his club's website: "We are extremely grateful to Southampton and (boss) Steve Wigley for allowing Martin to join us.

"It was prudent that we moved to strengthen the squad, at least for the duration of Warren's rehabilitation.

"We would once again like to thank Playershare [the fan-led scheme set up to fund loan signings and contracts] for funding the loan."