Adam Smith Bournemouth
AFC Bournemouth’s remarkable journey from League One to European qualification has been a dream come true for club captain Adam Smith. Initially joining the club on loan during the 2010/11 season, Smith returned on a permanent basis in 2014 when the team was in the Championship. Over the years, he has witnessed the club’s impressive ascent, including two promotions, one relegation, and now, for the first time, qualification for European competition.
Adam Smith said: “It’s just what dreams are made of really for this club. It would have been amazing to get Champions League, but let’s not get too carried away. For us to finish sixth in the Premier League, 18 games unbeaten, in the Europa League is, what an achievement, honestly.”
Adam Smith continued: “And even [vs Nottingham Forest], the first half, we didn’t play well. It’s just the mentality we have here is like, we just never give up. Even the second half, we just took it up a level. We just never give up, and that’s the mentality that the gaffer and all the coaches put in our minds. It’s why we do it.”
Reflecting on his future, Adam Smith stated: “Obviously, a change of manager, so just things are uncertain for everyone.”
Under the guidance of manager Andoni Iraola, Bournemouth finished sixth in the Premier League, securing a spot in the Europa League. This achievement was even more impressive given the team’s 18-game unbeaten streak in the latter part of the season. Smith praised Iraola and the squad’s mindset for their resilience and ability to secure results, particularly in challenging matches like the final game against Nottingham Forest.
Looking ahead, Smith has committed to another season with Bournemouth, despite the managerial change with Marco Rose set to take over in the summer. His reflections on the club’s journey highlight the significant progress made and the strong mentality instilled by the coaching staff, which has been pivotal in their success.