AFC Bournemouth’s tough start to the Premier League season continued last time out, with a home defeat to Wolves leaving it nine games, no wins for Andoni Iraola’s side.
The new Bournemouth manager is undoubtedly under pressure heading into this weekend and a home match against Burnley could be the opportunity for him to finally give his side lift-off.
Burnley, managed by former Manchester City man Vincent Kompany, sit just one place above Bournemouth in the table and a win could see either side move out of the relegation zone, depending on how other results go.
Last time out, former manager, Gary O’Neil, came back to haunt Bournemouth as his new Wolves side ran out 2-1 winners in a tight affair down on the south coast. The game saw Lewis Cook sent off and left many questioning the future of current manager Andoni Iraola.
Iraola remains in the dugout for this weekend’s fixture at Burnley with the fans seeming to back the Spaniard, but a loss to Burnley would mean 10 games, no wins, and in the Premier League that would leave any manager's job in an unstable position.
Iraola spoke to the media, including Nerve Sport, on Friday morning to preview this weekend’s clash.
On the injury front, Iraola confirmed Neto has injured his ankle and will be out until at least the international break. This will likely give Andrei Radu a chance to start in goal, in what will be just his third appearance for AFC Bournemouth.
Asked by Nerve Sport if Iraola has full confidence in both Radu and Randolph despite a lack of football, he responded:
“It is true [neither have played much] but Radu comes from an important club and he’s played important games in Serie A and the French league. So it’s not like he’s making his debut. We signed him because we think he is ready to play here.”
Despite a tough start to the season, Bournemouth can still jump out of the relegation zone this weekend. Asked if this gives him confidence and reassurance, Iraola said:
“First, we have to win our game, and the games are all key for this reason. It is true that if you can solve it [relegation] now, it’s easier.”
The importance of the Vitality crowd was once again praised by Iraola:
“I cannot complain about the crowd, I’ve been fully supported. When they support you, it makes me feel like I have to turn it around, but it’s always tough.”
With Neto missing and Adam Smith seeming unlikely to start, Iraola remained tight-lipped on who could captain the side this weekend:
“We will see depending on the line-up. It’s not so important who is the captain, everyone has to push and think collectively, play their game and help others communicate and this is something that we need now.”
AFC Bournemouth vs Burnley kicks off at 3pm tomorrow, with full coverage live from the Vitality Stadium available on Nerve Sport social media and our website.