ANDONI Iraola believes Neto’s ankle injury came “at the worst moment for him” at the end of October.

The experienced Brazilian goalkeeper missed three fixtures due to the issue, with Andrei Radu stepping in for a win against Burnley as well as defeats to Manchester City and Liverpool.

Mark Travers was also recalled from his loan spell at Stoke City to provide further cover and has been an unused substitute.

Neto, whose form prior to his injury saw some fans calling for him to be dropped, returned to action for the home clash with Newcastle United, which ended in a 2-0 victory.

Since his return to the side, Cherries are unbeaten in five matches, keeping three clean sheets.

Discussing the form of his captain, who looked assured in Cherries’ victories away at Crystal Palace and Manchester United last week, told the Daily Echo: “I think he had his injury probably at the worst moment for him, because he wanted to help us to turn the situation.

“Andrei was really good in the games he played.

“Neto came back also in a good moment for the team.

“Everyone looks better if we collectively have good performances.

“At the end, you have to think of the team first.

“When the team looks good, everyone individually also looks a little bit better.”