Andoni Iraola on Bournemouth full-back depth as Lloyd Kelly returns
ANDONI Iraola says he will have “difficult decisions” to make with all his full-back options now fit again.
Saturday’s game against Everton saw Iraola have all of Adam Smith, Milos Kerkez, Max Aarons and Lloyd Kelly available, with the latter duo returning to the bench.
Kelly came on and provided an assist for Dominic Solanke, before Smith’s cross from the other side led to Toffees captain Seamus Coleman scoring a late own goal.
All four full-backs have missed parts of the season due to injury, with the Everton game the first time they have all been in a matchday squad since the 2-0 win over Newcastle United in November.
Dango Ouattara and James Hill, who have covered minutes at full-back this season, were also on the bench against the Toffees.
Asked how nice it is to have the luxury of options at full-back again, Iraola told the Daily Echo: “In the beginning of the season, it was the midfield (with injuries) and after it has been the full-backs, right and left.
Kelly had not even been on the field for a minute, having replaced Kerkez, when he crossed for Solanke to score against Everton.
Asked if that was the quickest impact one of his substitutes have ever made, Iraola replied: “Probably his first or second ball!
“He trained really well during the week. He was in a good place.
“I was also thinking for the set-pieces to use him there, because we were quite a short team.
“It is difficult to deal with all the set-pieces, long balls and crosses inside the box with the physicality the Everton players have.
“We needed him so we could defend these kind of situations better.
“Obviously if he also puts in this amazing cross, that is much bette
