Cherries welcomed back both Dominic Solanke and Jack Stephens to the starting XI for Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Newcastle United. Marcus Tavernier and Ryan Fredericks were also introduced from the bench for their first appearances since November. In recent weeks, Cherries’ list of substitutes have included a handful of inexperienced players from the under-18s side. But at the weekend, O’Neil had nine first-team players to choose from, with a number of players still yet to return from injury.
Gary O Neil said: “We still have key players to come back, of course. So still four massive players for us that are missing. But the group is in a good place. And when they start to tire on 78 minutes and you have the full backing of the fans and even from the first minute to be honest, the fans were excellent. So I’m pleased for the lads because I’ve spoken about it since I took over. It’s important for the players. You can see we have a group that are willing to do whatever it takes to make sure they’re performing at their maximum. It’s been tough for them at times, because we’ve been a bit short with injuries, so they’ve had to suffer some tough results. We have a group that is a lot, lot stronger now.”
Asked if the four players he mentioned are close to returning,
Gary O’Neil added: “They’re slightly different and a couple we’re hoping to get back ahead of schedule. A couple are doing really well. Obviously I’m hopeful to get them back as soon as possible.”
Cherries go to Wolves on Saturday.
