Premier League: Lead-up to the Cherries vs the Cottagers
A New Secret Weapon for AFC Bournemouth?
Plenty has been said about the Cherries' defensive strength following a major overhaul in their defensive unit, but it was an attacking recruit who stood out in the game against Leeds United.
Kroupi was signed to add cover for lead striker Evanilson in the Cherries' attack, and it was his late finish that secured the manager's team a important draw away from home.
The forward netted an remarkable 13 goals in an equal number of appearances for FC Lorient in the prior term, which contributed to the club on their way to elevation to the first division in French football.
Moving from the France's second division to the EPL was always going to be a hard task and, as predicted, Kroupi has thus far been used only as an impact substitute.
His appearance at the last game came when the Bournemouth embracing a go-for-broke tactic, but his calmness to rifle home during added time could become a key asset for the team.
A prolific striker will score goals at every level and the attacker showed that with the way he got into place and neatly tucked away under pressure – a pivotal occasion for him.
Will Eli Junior earn a starting role following his contribution on Saturday? Maybe. But it's clear, the Cherries have uncovered one more component in Iraola's well-oiled machine.