Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has confirmed that Antoine Semenyo and Milos Kerkez are likely to be available for their Premier League fixture against Brighton on Saturday, despite both players managing ongoing injury issues.
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Both players were key contributors in Bournemouth’s recent 3-2 loss to Brentford on November 9.
However, their fitness required careful management during the international break. Semenyo was sidelined from Ghana’s squad, while Kerkez did not participate in Hungary’s matches.
Iraola explained that the duo needed the break to address persistent physical issues stemming from heavy workloads with both their club and national teams.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Iraola detailed the challenges faced by the two young players.
“With Antoine, it’s very similar to Milos Kerkez. They’re playing a lot of minutes for us and their national teams. Antoine is dealing with tendonitis—an ongoing condition. The international break was an opportunity for him to rest and receive treatment,” Iraola said.
Kerkez is facing similar physical demands. “He also needed to pause, receive treatment, and improve his overall physical condition. They’ve both been playing almost every minute, and the demands have been very high,” Iraola added.
Despite these concerns, Iraola expressed optimism about their fitness. “They can continue playing, and I hope their conditions improve so these issues fade away over time.”
Iraola provided a general update on the squad, noting that all returning international players are healthy, though some are fatigued.
“Everyone who went on international duty is available. Some have played more minutes than others, so they’re a bit tired, but there are no new injuries,” Iraola stated.
When asked specifically about Semenyo and Kerkez’s availability for the Brighton clash, he was hopeful. “They’re going to train today, and I expect them to play tomorrow.”
Iraola acknowledged that injuries remain a challenge for Bournemouth. “Every manager deals with injuries. We currently have three or four important players sidelined, but we must stay competitive and adapt,” he said.
As Bournemouth prepares for the home match against Brighton, the fitness of Semenyo and Kerkez offers a welcome boost to Iraola’s plans. Both players have been pivotal this season, and their availability will be crucial in the fight for points.