Fraser’s done at Cherries
EDDIE HOWE says Ryan Fraser has played his last game for Bournemouth.
The Scotland winger was slammed by fans this week after snubbing a new deal which would have allowed him to play in the last nine games of the season.
The Arsenal and Spurs target is out of contract on June 30 and the club hoped he could be persuaded to sign until the end of the campaign.
The 26-year-old refused and boss Howe has now ruled him out of the Cherries’ crucial two games before the cut-off point – starting against Crystal Palace at the Vitality Stadium tonight.
Howe said: “Ryan has now played his last game for the club and will not be involved with us for the final nine games.
“I only want players who are fully focused on the relegation battle.
“It was my decision. These are the most important games this club has had in recent times and we need everybody in the same position, mentally fighting tooth and nail and giving everything.
“Ryan, due to his contractual situation, cannot commit to that. Two games was not going to make the difference for us. We needed a ninegame commitment. And unfortunately he could not give that.
“I totally understand the fans’ frustration. They want to see the best players committed and playing for Bournemouth, especially in our current position. Ryan has put himself in this position.
“I was not particularly surprised by his decision. It has been clear for us for some time he was not going to sign.
“Ryan has put himself in this position. He’s felt this is the only conclusion that he can make.
“That’s his right to make that call. We have no say in that. He has to make a decision for himself.
“But I’m disappointed for him that his legacy will be around his departure rather than the good things he did. That’s sad for me because he’s been a key player. It’s sad that people will focus on how he left.”
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