Soccer Football - LaLiga - Rayo Vallecano v Atletico Madrid - Campo de Futbol de Vallecas, Madrid, Spain - April 9, 2023 Rayo Vallecano coach Andoni Iraola at half time REUTERS/Isabel Infantes
Andoni Iraola on Neto after goalkeeper mistake against Sheffield Utd
BOSS Andoni Iraola insists he “cannot say” if Neto will be his long-term number one goalkeeper, after question marks were raised over the Brazilian again at the weekend.
The 34-year-old has featured regularly for Cherries this season, making 25 appearances, seeing off competition from Mark Travers, Andrei Radu and Darren Randolph for the starting spot.
But fans have been less than convinced at times by the former Barcelona man’s performances. He received some criticism for his part in both of the Blades’ goals in the 2-2 draw at the weekend, particularly the second, in which he punched the ball into the back of his own player, before Jack Robinson turned it in.
That came less than a week on from captain Neto producing an impressive display in the 2-0 win at Burnley.
- INTERVIEW: Neto happy with his form for Cherries this season
Asked how he assesses the goalkeeper situation and if he sees Neto as his long-term first choice goalkeeper, Iraola told the Daily Echo: “I don’t like to say number one, number two, number three.
“I think there is competition for every position. Sometimes keepers will have to accept this.
“He made very good saves against Burnley, probably made a mistake against Sheffield United.
“It is part of their job, their position. Neto is very, very experienced. He knows better than me probably.
“But I cannot say he will start. I think there is competition for every position, including the goalkeeping position.”
Cherries host Luton Town in the Premier League this evening (7.3
