Junior is another player who has U21 England international recognition and that kind of quality is the level that AFCB now seek to maintain and improve on their Championship status. He is not a prolific scorer though having netted just seven times in 93 appearances for Burnley and three goals in 32 appearances last season for the clarets. So what exactly does he bring to AFCB? He can use either foot but usually plays on the left wing, which means he will most likely be fighting for a places against the likes of Marc Pugh and Ryan Fraser. Whether that means that Eddie Howe thinks that Pugh needs to improve his crossing or if he feels Fraser played too many games last season, we will just have to see. He is equally at home playing in the hole and has scored some stunning goals in that position like this one against Ipswich in 2013 (sorry no sound!).
With Premiership experience behind him from his West Ham days, Stanislas is used to the big occasion that will help the Cherries and he has already worked under some top-named West Ham managers such as Zola, Grant and Allardyce, and having been part of Burnley's promotion winning campaign he has been on the inside of a team that has made the grade in the Championship. So I see lots of positives and a player that should have his best years ahead of him and should be eager to regain Premiership football again.
It is another player that gives the Cherries that strength in depth that I was talking about yesterday and it may mean that AFCB start to play with a slightly different shape next season with Stanislas and Gosling both attacking midfielders. It was identified that there were a shortage of goals from the middle of the park and the two additions to the squad will hopefully boost the goal count. Check up on Junior's player history on Transfer Market, you'll see he is valued at around £1m even though he was out of contract when AFCB signed him.
I'm personally glad to see the back of Stanislas - has some nice little touches but only shows them for 25 minutes every 2 or 3 games.
ReplyDeleteStruggles to beat his man and cannot for the life in him take corners or cross in general. Neither of Howe or Dyche could unlock the potential that is there. On the plus side, can score some lovely goals - though he seems to lack confidence to shoot often.
I wish Junior all the best and thank him for his efforts. Hope Eddie However can get the best out of him the second time round.
Thanks for your comments. Always good to know a players strengths and weaknesses. It seems that he turned a new Premiership contract at Burnley - not many players would do that. I too hope he fits in well at AFCB
ReplyDeleteI think he knew that he'd only be a bit part player in the Premier League, so fair play to him moving for regular football. He could've easily sat on his backside for a year, collecting a wage.
ReplyDeleteIm a west ham fan but have a very big soft spot for afcb and attended a few home games last season due to having family on the south coast, when junior was a hammer, his potential was undoubted but he just lacked that confidence and sustainable form. I think linking up with Eddie will do his confidence a world of good and hopefully he will prove a shrewd and successful aquisition for Bournemouth. Next season looks bright, go on the cherries!
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