Andoni Iraola has discussed the future of Gavin Kilkenny at Bournemouth.
Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola has suggested that Gavin Kilkenny could feature for the Cherries this season.
Kilkenny arrived at the Vitality Stadium at the age of 16, and was elevated to the first team squad in 2019, making his debut in the League Cup that same season. However, as the south coast club dropped down in to the Championship, Kilkenny struggled to establish himself in the first team.
The midfielder managed 14 appearances in the second tier during the 2021/22 season, but fell out of contention again when Bournemouth secured promotion back to the Premier League.
Kilkenny spent the first half of last season on loan with Stoke City, before dropping down to League One for a temporary stint with Charlton for the remainder of the campaign. However, the 23-year-old struggled to make an impression at either club.
Few would have predicted that Kilkenny could feature for Bournemouth this season after spending last season in the Football League wilderness. It would be a shock if he were to be regularly involved. However, Iraola is refusing to rule the Irishman out of contention.
Kilkenny on a mission to impress Iraola at Bournemouth
As quoted by the Daily Echo, the Spanish coach said, “I think he has given himself a chance. He is pushing. He has been training all the sessions. He played in the friendlies, but it is really tough to play in the Premier League. He is giving his best…You never know when you have the chance.”
Kilkenny faces a tough task in breaking his way into the Bournemouth team. Established midfield regulars Philip Billing, Lewis Cook, and Joe Rothwell have been joined by summer recruits Alex Scott and Tyler Adams.
Even if he does stand a chance of getting the odd run out, a move is probably in Kilkenny’s best interests. At this stage in his career, he needs to be playing regularly, and he won’t get that chance at the Vitality Stadium this season. As things stand, though, he seems intent on trying to convince Iraola of his quality.