CHERRIES attacker Antoine Semenyo remains focused on doing all he can for his side whenever his on the pitch, no matter if he is starting or coming off the bench.
Although primarily a striker during his time in Bristol City’s academy, Semenyo has proven to be quite effective out wide in the Premier League under Andoni Iraola.
This term the Ghanaian international has three goals in 13 appearances, building on his first taste of top-flight last season, when he scored once in 11 games after joining Cherries in the January transfer window.
But competition on the flanks is fierce at Vitality Stadium, with Luis Sinisterra, Justin Kluivert, Marcus Tavernier, and Dango Ouattara battling Semenyo for minutes on the pitch.
Asked what position he preferred playing back in August, Semenyo told the Daily Echo: “I see myself as a nine, but I can play in the right (wing) position as well.
“So I consider myself versatile in that sense, but I'm happy wherever I'm put to play.”
Discussing life as a winger under Iraola, Semenyo shared: “It’s really good.
“I know that I’m going to be getting on the ball and getting at my full-back, so that’s great.
“I know that there’s the other side with defending, too.
“I wouldn’t say that’s my strongest point, but I know that I want to work hard for my teammate that’s behind me and that’s beside me.
“I’m just making sure that I can do whatever I can, whether I come on for 45 minutes, 60 minutes or 90 minutes.
“It’s about pushing as hard as I can for the team and I know that everyone else is going to be backing me as well, even when I’m going through a tough time.
“It’s nice playing wide in this team, it’s tough, but it’s nice and everyone’s thriving.”
Semenyo’s willingness both to take on his man and fire off first-time shots have endeared him to Cherries fans.
“I think it's just a natural part of my game, really,” the former Bristol City man told the Daily Echo when asked about his willingness to shoot whenever the chances arises to.
“Anytime I get a chance to shoot left or right foot, I'm going to take the opportunity - whether it gets blocked, goes out for a throw-in - I'm still doing the same thing.”
Semenyo and Cherries return to action this weekend, when they visit Nottingham Forest on Saturday, December 23 (3pm).
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