Premier League: Build-up to the Cherries vs the Cottagers
An Emerging Secret Weapon for AFC Bournemouth?
Plenty has been noted about Bournemouth's organized defense following a major overhaul in their defense, but it was an new forward who stole the spotlight in the fixture against Leeds United.
Eli Junior Kroupi was acquired to provide depth for main attacker the Brazilian forward in Bournemouth's frontline, and it was his stoppage-time finish that earned Iraola's team a crucial draw away from home.
Eli Junior netted an remarkable a baker's dozen in the same number of matches for his former club the previous campaign, which assisted the side toward promotion to the elite league in Ligue 1.
Transitioning from the France's second division to the EPL was always likely to prove a tough ask and, unsurprisingly, the player has thus far been restricted to an bench option.
His introduction at the weekend came when the AFC Bournemouth embracing a go-for-broke approach, but his composure to slot home during added time could prove to be a valuable weapon going forward.
A reliable finisher will know where the net is at any level and the attacker demonstrated that with the way he found space and comfortably swept home when needed – a major occasion for him.
Will Kroupi see increased playing time following his contribution on matchday? Maybe. But without a doubt, Andoni Iraola's side have uncovered another cog in their well-oiled machine.
