AFC Bournemouth
Cherries head coach Andoni Iraola sat down for his weekly press conference ahead of Manchester United’s visit to Vitality Stadium.
Here are three things we learned…
1. Pleased with MOTM award
Ahead of the press conference, it was announced that the head coach had been awarded the Premier League’s Manager of the Month for March.
Asked about the award, he said: “It was nice. It was the first time it’s happened [for me].
“It’s not just me, no, it’s recognition of the last run we had, especially in March.
“I think we’ve been close in a couple of other months and it’s good to receive this recognition, but the most important thing is the points we took from that month.”
2. Welcomes the addition of semi-automated offsides
Another announcement in recent days was that clubs had voted in favour of the introduction of semi-automated offside technology next season.
Sharing his thoughts, Iraola explained: “Yes, it’s very welcome. It’s something that was needed.
“I remember the experience in the World Cup or Euros, and it was really helpful for the ones watching the game.
“It was quite fast and I think you can see the situations clearer than with the lines that are sometimes not so clear.
“I think it’s a good step forward.”
3. United test needing big focus
The head coach also looked ahead to tomorrow’s visit of the Red Devils, as well as looking back to the 3-0 victory at Old Trafford earlier this term.
“I think it’s one of the best games we’ve played this season, it’s always great to experience a win and the way we did it in a stadium like Old Trafford,” Iraola said.
“Now, we have to start 0-0 again and we have to do it again.
“We now have the help of our home supporters, but it’s not going to be easy because they are a team that has top players.
“We have to be focussed for 100 minutes and don’t give cheap goals, don’t give cheap chances, but it’s not easy against these kinds of teams.”
