Premier League admirers sweet on Cherries full-back Kerkez

Milos Kerkez has not taken long to adjust to the Premier League.

After joining Bournemouth from AZ Alkmaar last summer, the left-back has become a key player under Andoni Iraola.

He has not allowed injury or inexperience to hinder his progress and was particularly impressive in last weekend's narrow defeat to Manchester City.

Ahead of the Cherries' clash with Burnley, we assess the 20-year-old's promising debut season in England's top flight.

Catching the eye

Kerkez's form has led to rumours of interest from Manchester United and Chelsea — both expected to be in the market for a left-back come the end of the season.

The Hungary international has proved adept as both a defensive and attacking full-back this season, ranking fourth in Bournemouth's squad for total tackles per 90 minutes (2.33) and fifth for crosses attempted per 90 (2.39) in the Premier League.

He even had the courage to venture forward against City, registering three shots as his side were beaten 1-0 by the champions.

Kerkez had played in all but one of Bournemouth's league games this term before he picked up an injury in December.

He returned in late January and was eased back into action from the bench by Iraola, starting for the first time since his recovery against the Citizens.

That performance suggested Kerkez will have no trouble getting back on track after his winter lay-off.

Iraola influence

Kerkez got off to the best possible start at Bournemouth.

He was named the club's Player of the Month for August, quickly settling having arrived as a relative unknown.

After he had signed from AZ, Cherries boss Iraola said: "I think even if he [Kerkez] is very young, he is ready to play straight away, because he has already played at a high level.

"He played tough European games in the past season and also his mentality to improve is very good.

"I think he is conscious that he has very good things but he has to improve in other areas. We will try to help him."

Iraola's comments proved prescient — Kerkez's assured performances early in the campaign belied his youth.

Months later, the full-back has further developed in an ever-improving Bournemouth side, although elements of his game could still be polished.

Following the City defeat, Iraola said: "Probably he wasn't the best in the finishing.

"He also had one very good chance from a set-piece in the second phase. But I think he dealt quite well with the game."

Exciting future

All things considered, Kerkez could hardly have asked for a better first season at Bournemouth.

And with reported interest from some of the Premier League's top clubs, others have clearly taken notice.

There is unlikely to be any danger of Kerkez getting ahead of himself, though.

Speaking in December, he said: "I think I am doing really good. I am doing what the coach wants me to do and I am adapting more to the team. It's only going to get better.

"I want to improve myself. I am still young and I know where I want to be and what I can do. 

"I want to push and play as many games as I can."

After an impressive first few months, Kerkez is certainly one to keep an eye on.