Having only been confirmed as Bournemouth’s new manager at the end of last month, it has been a whirlwind four weeks for former Fulham boss Scott Parker.
A pre-season trip to Marbella brought mixed results on the pitch with a 4-2 victory over Linense being followed by a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Granada.
However, the Cherries gave a good account of themselves versus Chelsea earlier this week, initially leading the European champions before succumbing during the closing 20 minutes.
There has been much talk of Bournemouth needing to sell at least one of their stars before the end of the summer transfer window, but the senior departures have been limited to Asmir Begovic, Diego Rico and Jack Wilshere.
The addition of former Brentford playmaker Emiliano Marcondes could prove key, while versatile defender Leif Davis has a point to prove after signing on a season-long loan from Leeds United.
Such as been Russell Martin’s impact at MK Dons that the former centre-back has recently been linked with the vacant managerial position at Swansea City.
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The 35-year-old has reportedly turned down the opportunity to move to the Liberty Stadium, and that decision can only benefit MK Dons in the long run as they bid to return to the Championship.
Martin’s squad concluded their pre-season campaign with a 3-1 defeat against a strong Tottenham Hotspur side in midweek, a result which came on the back of losing to Bristol City by the same scoreline.
Nevertheless, with the likes of Josh Martin and Mohamed Eisa having arrived from Norwich City and Peterborough United respectively, supporters are optimistic that this group of players can challenge for the League One playoffs
