Premier League: Lead-up to the Cherries vs the Cottagers
A New Game Changer for the Cherries?
Plenty has been discussed about AFC Bournemouth's solid backline following a significant reshuffle in their defensive unit, but it was an new forward who made the headlines in the game against Leeds.
Kroupi was signed to add cover for main attacker Evanilson in Bournemouth's offensive line, and it was his stoppage-time finish that secured the manager's squad a vital point in an away fixture.
Kroupi netted an impressive 13 goals in as many games for Lorient the previous campaign, which assisted the side toward promotion into the top flight in France.
Moving from the French second tier to the EPL was always expected to be a hard task and, as anticipated, he has so far been used only as an super-sub.
His appearance at the last game coincided with the Bournemouth embracing a all-out attack tactic, but his composure to rifle home during injury time could become a key asset going forward.
A prolific striker will score goals at all levels and the attacker demonstrated that with the way he got into place and calmly finished when needed – a major occasion for him.
Will Kroupi see increased playing time on the back of his influence on Saturday? Perhaps. But it's clear, Bournemouth have discovered one more component in Iraola's efficient setup.
