Eddie Howe has given Jermain Defoe assurances that he is still a part of his plans, despite hardly utilising the veteran striker this season.
Defoe has made just three substitute appearances in the Premier League so far this season, with his game time totalling just 13 minutes, with his only two starts of the season coming in the Cherries’ Carabao Cup games.
However, despite Callum Wilson being the undisputed number one striker for Bournemouth this season – with the 26-year-old scoring six goals and providing five assists in all competitions – Eddie Howe has reassured Defoe that there will be plenty of opportunities for him.
“Jermain has been brilliant. He has trained well and his attitude has been fantastic,” Howe told his pre-match press conference.
“I have had conversations with Jermain and he will get an opportunity because it is a long season and I have no doubt about his qualities.
“He scored some really vital goals for us last season and I am sure he will do so again.”
Defoe is most likely to be offered that opportunity in tonight’s Carabao Cup clash against Championship side Norwich City.