WADE Elliott will be looking to stake his claim for an instant first-team recall when he returns to action in Cherries' Avon Insurance Combination clash against Wycombe Wanderers tomorrow.

The 22-year-old midfielder lines up against the Chairboys at Dean Court after serving a three-match ban for getting sent off in Cherries' 2-0 win at Cambridge last month (2pm kick-off).

Elliott received the maximum penalty for serious foul play after he was dismissed for the first time in his brief professional career by referee Mick Fletcher for elbowing Cambridge defender John Dreyer.

His enforced absence handed James Hayter the chance to impress on the right-hand side of midfield, although Elliott will be hoping to play his way back in contention for Saturday's trip to Oldham.

Elliott said: "The Wycombe game has come at a good time for me because my suspension is due to finish after tonight's match at Swin-don so I can get back almost immediately.

"It has given me something to aim for, although I know I need to put in a good performance to get back into the squad for the trip to Oldham because there have been some good displays while I have been out.

"I knew James Hayter would come in and do a good job because everybody here knows he is a quality player who is quick, shuts people down, has a good touch and an eye for goal.

"As soon as I got sent off I knew how hard it would be to get my place back because there are a number of people who can play in that position.

"But James is a centre forward and that's where he wants to play so hopefully there will be space for both of us. All I can do is keep working hard and fight for my place."

Elliott has started to establish himself as a first team regular and has turned in a succession of eye-catching performances in the Cherries midfield alongside Richard Hughes, Carl Fletcher and Claus Jorgensen.

Cherries boss Sean O'Driscoll said: "Wade was in a rich vein of form before he got suspended and I always like to play the right people in the right positions.

"But I know James Hayter will always do a good job wherever he plays, although he is more of a threat in a freer role up front."