ALEX Scott could make his long-awaited Cherries debut this weekend, with head coach Andoni Iraola labelling him a “complete player”.
Highly-rated Scott joined Cherries for a reported £25million from Bristol City over the summer.
But after picking up a knee injury shortly before arriving, he is yet to make his Cherries debut.
The midfielder last featured during a pre-season game for the Robins at Portsmouth in July, but could be ready to take on Wolverhampton Wanderers at Vitality Stadium tomorrow (3pm).
Asked how soon the 20-year-old could make his comeback, having returned to training during the international break, Iraola told the Daily Echo: “I think obviously he is not with the rhythm the others have probably, but I think he is ready to help the team.
“I think he can help us. We know he has the level.
“Obviously he has played in the Championship, but we trust him a lot. If his feelings are good, I think he is ready to help us.”
Iraola added: “He has been willing to push since the beginning, since he came here.
“Already when he came here he knew he was going to be out for some time.
“But he has been pushing and now it is good to see him outside, training with the rest.
“He has very good feelings. So it is very good news for all.”
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Without Scott, and fellow summer signing Tyler Adams, who himself is recovering from a hamstring injury, Cherries’ midfield options have been limited.
Lewis Cook, Joe Rothwell and Philip Billing have been sharing the load in the deeper positions, with Gavin Kilkenny yet to get a chance to feature.
Ryan Christie has largely filled the number 10 berth, in behind striker Dominic Solanke.
Discussing what he feels Scott can bring to the midfield, Iraola said: “I think he can play in the eight and 10 positions.
“I think physically, even if he is young, he has good physicality.
“He is used to playing with a high rhythm.
“On the ball probably are the things that are more outstanding from him and how he carries the ball.
“I think he is a complete player and we need him right now.
“Whenever he can help the team it will be a good addition.”
Guernsey-born Scott was previously on the books of Southampton and Cherries as a youngster, before linking up with Bristol City.
Scott, a European under-19 Championship winner with England, made 91 appearances for Bristol City, scoring six goals.
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