Jermain Defoe can continue to have a major impact for Bournemouth this season – both on and off the bench, according to manager Eddie Howe.
The 35-year-old striker has made just two Premier League appearances as a late substitute, but was back in the starting XI for last week’s Carabao Cup win over Blackburn.
Defoe opted to head to the south coast following Sunderland’s relegation in May 2017, but saw progress in the last campaign limited by some fitness issues, scoring four goals in 26 games.
The veteran forward, with more than a half-century of England caps to his name, remains determined to force his way back into Howe’s first-team regulars.
Josh King and Callum Wilson could well lead the Bournemouth frontline once again for Monday night’s Premier League home clash against Crystal Palace.
Howe revealed both continue to benefit from Defoe’s insight to help their own progression.
“Jermain has been really good behind the scenes and used his experience in a really good way,” the Bournemouth manager said.
“I have seen a good response from him this season, the way he has put his arm around other players in moments when we really needed that experience to shine through.
“There have been moments where he is on the bench when he had a real positive word with the team.
“Yes, he might not be impacting on the pitch as much as he would like, but he has been having a massive impact away from that, which is absolutely massive for us.
“For us to be successful we need everyone in the squad to be contributing in some way.”
Howe added: “When you sign a player you look at a whole host of things, not just the player but the character.
“Our vision for Jermain was he would have a huge impact on the young strikers we have – Callum Wilson, Josh King, Lys Mousset – in a really positive way, to educate them how you live your life, how to approach the game.
“Of course, Jermaine is an outstanding player still in his own right, but of course with those key attributes you need good older professionals within your squad.
“He had a massive role in us achieving what we did last year, and I have no doubt he will do the same again.
“Jermain showed on Tuesday night (in the Carabao Cup tie) he is still a threat – his movement was very good and had chances to score, which was a really good sign for me.”
Bournemouth host Palace looking to get what had been a positive start to the Premier League season up and running again, having gone down 4-0 at Burnley last time out.
Howe, though, knows Monday night’s encounter with the Eagles will be another stern test.
“We have always found Crystal Palace to be very tough competitors, with a very good squad and they have a very experienced manager,” the Bournemouth boss said at a press conference.