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First Team

Injury News: Parker updates on injuries and signings

Scott Parker has provided his latest injury update on the squad ahead our FA Cup third round clash at Yeovil Town.

The Cherries travel to Huish Park for a 5.45pm kick-off on Saturday in what will be the side’s first game of 2022.

After Monday’s game against Peterborough was called off due to a number of Covid-19 cases and injuries in the Bournemouth camp, Parker was on hand to provide a more thorough update in Thursday’s press conference.

“Injury-wise, we’ve got a few nursing problems,” he began.

“There’s nothing major jumping out and I can’t mention Covid cases due to confidentiality.

“Junior Stanislas will see specialists but, other than that, there are players with knocks and little bits.

“Robbie Brady has improved and was on the grass for the first time today. We’ll have to see where he is for the weekend, maybe it’s still a bit early. There’s about where we are.

“In the current climate, we’ll be using the squad at the weekend for many reasons. Players deserve an opportunity but also because of where we are in terms of cases and in terms of injuries.

“We’ll need to be sensible and use the squad where we can.”

The head coach went on to discuss the two new additions to his squad, with both James Hill and Ethan Laird joining from Fleetwood Town and Manchester United earlier this week.

Parker admitted he’s looking forward to working with them and implementing his playing style in their game.

“We’ll be getting them up to speed as we’re very particular with the way we work. I think the team are structured like that.

“Physically, we need to work out where they both are. It’s been a big transition for both boys in terms of travel and the environment change. We need to tread carefully around that.

“In terms of the way we play, there’s going to have to be some work done to that.

“The boys in and around the team at the moment have been with us for six months, they’ve been drilled upon drilled to learn the game model and have worked tirelessly.

“These boys are going to need a speedy lesson in that, but I have no doubt that they’ll adapt to it and will be here to help us for the last part of the season.”