Make no mistake, these are exciting times ahead for Brad Smith.
The young Socceroo’s $6 million transfer from Liverpool to Bournemouth may not be the most glamorous move of the offseason but it is certainly one in the right direction.
Smith had struggled for any regular game time over his four-year tenure with the senior squad, only featuring a total of 10 times under both Brendan Rodgers and Jurgen Klopp and a move to the Vitality Stadium is a prospect that should excite the 22-year old’s fans.
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The left full-back is showing he wants to take his development as a footballer to the next level as he looks to transition from a squad role to regular first team football in the Premier League, however a spot in the starting XI is still not assured with the Cherries.
Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe’s summer signings have indicated something of a rebuild, as the Cherries look to the future and long-term stability within the league.
With the arrivals of Football League Young Player of the Year Lewis Cook and Rhoys Wiggins from Leeds, as well as Chealsea youngster Nathan Ake on loan, Howe now has real (and formidable) depth down Smith’s preferred left side.
While Cook prefers to play in a higher midfield role, both he and Ake have been touted as future stars of the league after impressive starts to their respective careers, while Wiggins may be seen as a more experienced option within a back line that conceded the second-most goals last season and has struggled for any defensive consistency.
Despite this, there is still a lot to like about Smith’s chances of establishing himself as part of the furniture this season. Smith has shown he is not afraid to push on and go past the left-midfielder in his few club and international outings, something that should suit the fast tempo and characteristically aggressive nature of football Howe has implemented during his four seasons in charge of Bournemouth.
Bournemouth are also yet to sign a traditional centre-half in the transfer window after stalwart Tommy Elphick’s departure. Ake’s versatility may see him shifted into a more central defensive position, opening up Smith’s preferred left-back position.
It is also interesting to note that both of Bournemouth’s Liverpool recruits, Smith and 20-year old Jordon Ibe, both have buy-back clauses within their contracts. Could the Reds be keeping an eye on their future prospects?
Certainly another incentive for Smith to make the most of his opportunities at his new home.
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