Not signing a striker 'might have positive impact'

Former Bournemouth defender Joe Partington believes it might be beneficial for the club that they did not add a striker in the January transfer window as a direct replacement for injured Evanilson and Enes Unal.

Although Eli Junior Kroupi signed from FC Lorient, the French attacker has returned to the Ligue 2 side on loan, meaning Bournemouth will stick with what they have for the rest of the season.

Speaking on the latest episode of BBC Radio Solent's Cherries: Unpicked podcast, Partington said: "If we were having this conversation the day after Evanilson got injured and it was deadline day, I would have been more surprised.

"The fact s that they've gone to all these places in January, have got results and done very well, with Dango Ouattara scoring many goals.

"If the manager sees that and thinks we are actually OK then you have to back him and trust him.

"When you're a club where the perception is you need something, then the football clubs that hold the athletes will make you pay above and beyond what they're worth."

Partington believes it also sends a positive message out to the players: "I don't mind the fact they've gone without one. He trusts the players he's got and that might have a positive impact on the club.

"It might give the players an edge because the manager trusts them."

Listen to the full episode on BBC Sounds