Football: Kluivert available for Bournemouth's clash against Palace

IANS April 18, 2025 175 views

Bournemouth's Justin Kluivert is ready to return to the squad for their crucial match against Crystal Palace. Head coach Andoni Iraola confirmed the forward's availability, boosting the team's hopes of securing back-to-back wins. The Cherries are on the brink of matching their best-ever Premier League points total with just six games remaining. This fixture presents an opportunity for Bournemouth to potentially cement their impressive eighth-place position in the league.

"I think Justin will be available if he trains normally." - Andoni Iraola, Bournemouth Head Coach
Bournemouth, April 18: Head coach Andoni Iraola confirmed forward Justin Kluivert is set to be available for Saturday's Premier League game at Crystal Palace. The Netherlands international has missed AFC Bournemouth's past three games due to injury.

Key Points

1

Kluivert returns after three-game injury absence

2

Bournemouth aims to equal record 48 Premier League points

3

Dutch forward has 12 goals and 6 assists this season

4

Team looks to maintain 8th place standing

But speaking in his press conference ahead of the trip to Selhurst Park, Iraola is expecting the 25-year-old to be fit for selection. Asked for his team news ahead of the game, Iraola said, "I think Justin will be available if he trains normally. That's the plan, if everything goes normally, he is going to be available. "Sini (Luis Sinisterra) is not going to be available. The others should be fine. I hope everyone is ready to go."

The Dutch forward has been immense for Bournemouth this season and established himself as an attacking powerhouse for the club. He has appeared in 28 league games this campaign and scored 12 goals whilst accumulating six assists as well.

The Cherries are going in search of back-to-back top-flight wins after beating Fulham 1-0 on Monday night. That victory ensured the club equalled their record Premier League points total of 48, with six games of the campaign remaining.

Asked about achieving that milestone, Iraola said, "I was really happy. We still need to get at least one more to celebrate it properly, but it was one of the goals. I hope we can do it tomorrow. Tomorrow is the first chance we have to beat it, so let's try to do it."

Palace are currently 12th in the division, five points behind eighth-placed AFC Bournemouth. The side was on their way to a strong campaign before dropping points in six consecutive league outings, a run they ended with a victory against Fulham.

Reader Comments

J
Jamie R.
Massive boost having Kluivert back! He's been our most consistent attacker this season. That left foot of his is pure magic ⚡
S
Sarah L.
While I'm happy about Kluivert, I'm concerned about our defensive depth. We've been lucky with injuries at the back but one more and we could be in trouble.
T
Tom K.
12 goals and 6 assists in his first PL season? What a signing he's been. Remember when people said he was washed after Roma? 😂
M
Mohammed A.
Palace away is always tough but with Kluivert back and our current form, I fancy us to get all 3 points. COYC! 🍒
E
Emma W.
Respectfully, I think the article overstates how "immense" he's been. Good season yes, but let's not forget his dry spells. Still crucial to have him back though!
D
Danny P.
Iraola has worked wonders with this squad. From relegation candidates to breaking points records. What a time to be a Cherries fan!

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Your email won't be published


Disclaimer: Comments here reflect the author's views alone. Insulting or using offensive language against individuals, communities, religion, or the nation is illegal.

Tags:
Premier League Bournemouth Justin Kluivert Andoni Iraola Crystal Palace Football Transfer