Connell hails duo's professionalism

The pair have both been involved with the first team in recent weeks, striker Adu-Adjei handed his debut as a late substitute in the FA Cup victory against QPR on Saturday.

Defender Greenwood was also included in the matchday squad against the Hoops and was an unused substitute for the Premier League wins over Nottingham Forest and Fulham.

They both played important roles as Connell’s team resumed their Professional Development League campaign with hard-fought 1-0 victory against a vastly-experienced Bristol City team on Tuesday.

Adu-Adjei, who netted the only goal against the Robins, his 15^th of the season, and Greenwood are expected to feature when the Cherries host Cardiff City at Wimborne’s New Cuthbury on Friday (1pm kick-off).

Connell told afcb.co.uk: “It’s important that all our players are ready for those opportunities when they come along.

“It’s what they are working for every day and our job as coaches is to try to prepare them as best we can for when those opportunities arise.

“Ben and Dan have both been involved with the first-team squad recently, as have other players in the past.

“Making his debut against QPR was a special day for Dan and his family, hopefully it’s the first of many appearances.

“It was also a special day for us as a club. We strive to produce our own players and, to do that, they have to be outstanding people as well as outstanding players.

“Their attitude is the reason they are up with the first team as often as they are.

“When they are with us, they train hard and give their best in games. They produce high-quality performances.

“The foundation for that is their good attitude and professionalism. They want to work hard every day and hard work pays dividends.”

Adu-Adjei’s late winner against Bristol City saw the Cherries draw level on 29 points with QPR at the top of the South Group table in the Professional Development League.

And avoiding defeat against Cardiff at Wimborne would see them climb to the summit, this being the Cherries’ game in hand on QPR. Entry to New Cuthbury is free to supporters.

Connell added: “We haven’t played Cardiff yet because the away game was postponed earlier in the season so we are looking forward to going against them.

“It’s a quick turnaround for us having played on Tuesday. We’ve got a busy schedule but we’re excited at the prospect of having a home game.

“I’m looking forward to seeing the boys, hopefully, go out and perform in what promises to be another tough test in what is a competitive league.”