Iraola Addresses Injuries, Team Expectations, and Crystal Palace Match

Andoni Iraola, the manager of Bournemouth, spoke to the media ahead of the Premier League fixture against Crystal Palace at home on Boxing Day (15:00). Below are the main points from his press conference: Iraola stated that he anticipates having the same squad available as for the recent victory over Manchester United on Sunday, despite some players picking up “niggles” at Old Trafford. He commented, “I don’t expect anyone new – I also hope that we don’t lose anyone.” Adam Smith is set to be evaluated after being withdrawn at half-time, while Luis Sinisterra, Alex Scott, Julian Araujo, Marcos Senesi, and Marcus Tavernier were all absent from the 3-0 win. He refrained from commenting on the prospect of a European push, stating, “I want to repeat what I tell you every day – I don’t believe in the long term goals when we are not half way through the season. Because we are higher [in the league table], it is not a big change.” Iraola clarified that his remarks about avoiding excessive excitement are “not a message, it is what I believe.” Regarding the challenge presented by Palace, he noted, “They are getting better results and performing better. You can see the level of the players they have, a load of players in the England squad, it’s going to be difficult.” When questioned about the next steps for the Cherries, Iraola responded, “I want us to be as more efficient as we can, as long as we continue creating chances and having the performances we’re having, we’ll be fine.”