AFC Bournemouth
AFC Bournemouth winger Jaidon Anthony is ‘excited to be back’ as the squad begin pre-season ahead of the 2023/24 season.
The 23-year-old is looking ahead to his second campaign of Premier League football, having played 30 times last season.
Anthony looked ready to kick on as he impressed members of staff with his physical condition following a day of testing at Vitality Stadium.
The players were put through a series of assessments, including an intense 1600 metre run, as staff analysed the fitness of the squad, with Anthony benefitting from the work he’s done over the summer period.
Speaking to afcb.co.uk, Anthony revealed more about his break: “We had a few weeks off and I had a little programme, trying to stick to it as much as I could.
“The sports science and medical team set a programme for every player of things we can do to try and keep fit, little drills and it is down to you to do them and keep in shape, ready to come back and impress.
“I also hired a couple of coaches to train me as well over the break so I could keep sharp and come back in a good place, so hopefully I’ve done that.
“The break was good, it was nice to have a little break and recharge but I’m excited to be back and get stuck in.”
The session was the first opportunity for most of the squad to meet new head coach Andoni Iraola, who took charge last month.
Anthony admitted he’s excited about the prospect of working with Iraola, saying: “It's a new manager, new ideas and I’m buzzing to get started and try to impress.
“He seems very positive, it’s only the first day and we haven’t had the balls out yet so there’s still a lot of learning to come but he’s a highly-rated manager and I’m excited to work under him.
“Everyone knows how tough pre-season is and you’ve just got to get stuck in and fully commit, and hopefully come out of the other side in a good place ahead of the start of the season.”
