DEMBELE: I HAVE TO TAKE MY CHERRIES CHANCES
SIRIKI Dembele knows he needs to make the most of every opportunity he gets to impress boss Scott Parker as he looks to thrive in the “more intense” surroundings of promotion-chasing Bournemouth.
The 25-year-old was one of seven signings made by the Cherries during the January transfer window and, while he is enjoying his new life on the south coast, the former Peterborough winger is well aware of the challenges facing him.
He said: “It’s a different environment. It’s more intense and the demands are greater, but really enjoyable.
“It’s a good squad with lots of good players. Everyone wants to play, so you need to be on it at all times.
“When the squad is big and there are lots of players, you may not always play and you have to adapt to that.”
Bournemouth hope their spending spree can tip the balance in their favour as they seek a return to the Premier League, and Dembele is feeling optimistic on that front.
“I like the football we play and I feel we’ve got a good chance of getting promoted,” he added.
Meanwhile, Cherries boss Parker was this week charged with using improper language during his side’s 2-1 loss at Preston last weekend.
Parker and Cherries defender Adam Smith were both sent from the bench in the aftermath of Emil Riis Jakobsen’s 89th-minute winner for the hosts.
A statement from the FA said: “Scott Parker has been charged with a breach of FA Rule E3.
“It is alleged that the manager’s language was abusive, and/or insulting, and/or improper during the 90th minute of the game and he has until Monday, March 14 to respond.”