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The Latest Key Asset for the Cherries?

A great deal has been noted about Bournemouth's defensive strength following a significant reshuffle in their backline, but it was an attacking recruit who stole the spotlight in the fixture against Leeds United.

Eli Junior Kroupi was signed to offer competition for lead striker Evanilson in the team's frontline, and it was his stoppage-time finish that secured the manager's team a vital draw on the road.

Kroupi scored an impressive thirteen goals in an equal number of appearances for Lorient the previous campaign, which helped the side on their way to promotion back to the first division in French football.

Moving from the French second tier to the English top flight was always likely to prove a tough ask and, as predicted, Kroupi has so far been limited to an bench option.

His introduction at the recent match was during the Cherries adopting a go-for-broke approach, but his composure to rifle home during injury time could emerge as a key asset going forward.

A consistent goalscorer will find the back of the net at every level and the attacker proved that with the way he got into place and neatly tucked away under pressure – a significant moment for him.

Will Eli Junior get more minutes on the back of his influence on the weekend? Maybe. But one thing is certain, Bournemouth have discovered one more component in the manager's smoothly running system.

Nicholas Marsh
Nicholas Marsh

A tech enthusiast and business analyst passionate about sharing insights on innovation and digital transformation.