Eddie Howe has been speaking to the press following our Summer Series draw with Chelsea in the early hours of Thursday morning.
Full quotes are yet to emerge at the time of writing, but the boss told the press that Karl Darlow’s move to Leeds is now close, confirming that the goalkeeper has been given permission to leave our training camp in the USA and complete a medical with the Championship side.
That will be a permanent move worth a reported £400,000, but one player who will NOT be leaving is Lewis Miley. After the 17-year-old shone in front of 70,000 fans in Atlanta, Howe ruled out any loan move for the midfielder, insisting he’d stay with the group for the coming season.
Fabian Schar was forced off with a suspected injury, but his hamstring is thought to be “tight rather than a pull”, according to Howe. He will be assessed, however, that’s a relief with just two weeks left until the new season kicks off.
Asked about our overall performance, the boss said: “It was a really good exercise and challenge for us. I thought it was a battling, gritty, determined second-half and a young team at the end. We saw it out and got a good draw.”
Howe also discussed Almiron’s memorable goal at his former stomping ground and Sandro Tonali; who is still getting to grips with the pace and intensity of our play. On Miggy’s goal, he said: “Amazing moment for Miggy. The goal itself was a good one. It was a really composed finish from quite a long way out. He’s picked his corner. Miggy communicates through his smile and his body language.”
Howe on Tonali: “I think it takes time with every new player. There is an adaption period especially for players who come from different leagues. Sandro will have experienced a higher intensity and quality of opposition during the last two games. He’s getting used to our style and his teammates.”
