Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe is hoping an easy tap-in falls the way of striker Dominic Solanke in the near future. The January signing from Liverpool has yet to get his debut goal for the Cherries despite appearing in 19 competitive games for the side, but Howe is convinced it is not too far away.
Howe started the England international for the fourth game in a row in the draw with West Ham on Saturday, and even moved Norwegian international Josh King to a wider position in an effort to accommodate the 22-year-old.
However, despite netting in pre-season for the Cherries, Solanke is still to get off the mark.
Howe is delighted with the frontman’s contribution and what he brings to the side, saying he will continue to improve and needs to get a run to feel part of the team.
The boss believes Solanke has all the technical ability in the world and his link-up play is excellent, but he just needs one to go his way in front of goal and then he should hopefully go on a scoring run for the Cherries.
He scores regularly in training and has no problem with his confidence in front of goal, but just needs something to drop his way. “You just want one to fall for him,” said Howe. “Every chance that he’s had, even on Saturday, they’re not clear, presentable opportunities, they’re half-chances and, unfortunately, he hasn’t been able to take one.
“I’ve seen this with so many players before. The goals will come if you keep delivering good performances, I’ve no doubt about that.”
Solanke’s last goal came for Liverpool against Brighton in May 2018 and he has now gone 38 Premier League games without finding the back of the net.
