Scott Parker gives an injury update ahead of the trip to Luton Town on Saturday 15 January
Cherries boss, Scott Parker gave an injury update as the Dorset club returns to Championship football this weekend - the first time in 2022 - when they travel to 16th placed Luton Town on Saturday lunctime.
Bournemouth have been struggling with a few injuries of late with experienced first team players Junior Stanislas and Adam Smith both out with long term injuries. Stanislas has struggled with a reoccurring hamstring injury this season and he’s set to miss out on the next few weeks after coming off after just 14 minutes against Cardiff.
“Injury wise we’re okay, we are where we have been over the last two weeks in terms of personnel," explained Parker.
Bournemouth's new signings James HIll and Ethan Laird will likely not feature as they are yet to get up to speed with the Cherries head coach methods and will need ome time to bed into the current squad.
Speaking about the two young defenders, Parker said: “James Hill comes in [to mind] in terms of where he is, Ethan as well.
"It’s probably too early for them. They still need time with us."
Another player who remains sidelined is veterarn full-back Adam Smith who is yet to recover from a knee injury that has meant the 30-year-old has only featured once in the last 14 games.
When discussing the defender's condition, Parker added: “Adam Smith is progressing in the right way, we’re still some weeks away from seeing him.”
Questioned about Emiliano Marcondes starting after his FA Cup hattrick, Parker was full of praise for the Danish midfielder.
“His training habits and demeanour around the team have been spot on," revealed the head coach.
"I was really pleased as a manager, these are things you’re always banging on about, making sure you’re ready to take your opportunity.”
In terms of COVID-19 Bournemouth have no new cases following the postponement of their last fixture against Peterborough, although, left Back Jordan Zemura is not available due to his participation in the African Cup of Nations with Zimbabwe.