Playmaking midfielder Joe Rothwell became the second summer signing for AFC Bournemouth ahead of the 2022/23 Premier League season.
The Manchester-born midfielder joined Manchester United’s academy at the age of six, signing professional terms in the summer of 2013.
Rothwell didn’t make a senior appearance for United but spent time on loan with Blackpool and Brentford.
In July 2016, Rothwell signed permanently for League One side Oxford United having turned down a contract extension at Old Trafford.
He netted his first senior goal in an FA Cup victory over Macclesfield Town in December 2016, slotting home following a bursting run from midfield.
Rothwell made 86 appearances for Oxford across two seasons, scoring eight goals, and was a long-coveted target for Blackburn Rovers, who eventually completed his signature in June 2018.
Having initially been utilised from the bench in his first season at Ewood Park, his excellent end of season form cemented his place as a key player and Rothwell secured the club’s goal of the season award for a superb strike against Nottingham Forest.
He was one of the standout players in the Championship in 2021/22, scoring three goals and registering ten assists in 40 appearances.
A versatile player who can play across the midfield, Rothwell proved to be an important player for Tony Mowbray’s side, making 160 appearances in total and netting 11 goals.
As he reached the conclusion of his contract at Ewood Park, Rothwell became one of the most sought-after free agents in the country, electing to join the Cherries in June 2022.
In January 2024, Rothwell made a loan move to Southampton for the rest of the 2023/24 season.
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