FPL Scouting Report: Bournemouth striker Benik Afobe

AFC Bournemouth may have been in a much more promising position at this point had they not lost their most promising striker, Callum Wilson, early on this season. Without a consistent goal threat and a rash of cruel injuries, the Cherries endured a retched run of form that saw them rooted into the bottom 3. But having found a rich vein of form, with huge wins over Chelsea and Manchester United, Bournemouth find themselves 4pts above the drop zone. However, Eddie Howe was under no illusion that his squad needed reinforcements in the January window, recruiting midfielder Juan Iturbe and now Benik Afobe from Wolverhampton.

Who is Benik Afobe?

Benik Afobe comes into the Bournemouth squad with international experience playing for the England side that won the 2010 UEFA European Under-17 Championship. Afobe also played within the ranks of the Arsenal Reserves, scoring 20 goals in 13 appearances for the Arsenal U-18 squad. While his Arsenal career never fully developed, Afobe played crucial roles in various loan spells. One of his most impressive performances being his 2 goal haul for MK Dons in their humbling 4-0 defeat of Manchester United in the 2014-2015 League Cup second round. Afobe then signed for Wolverhampton Wanderers in January of 2015, going on to score an impressive 22 goals in 46 matches for the Midlands club.

What potential will Afobe have in the Bournemouth squad?

Eddie Howe's new signing didn't come cheap, to the tune of a reported 10mil deal. Given that Bournemouth have been light up top since Callum WIlson's promising start to the season, one can imagine Afobe should come straight into the squad. Reports suggest his paper work is being pushed through to face West Ham, however a spot on the bench is more likely in the short term. With solid areal quality and eye for goal, Afobe will certainly be a welcome edition. Expect a few goals from the former Arsenal man in the remainder of the season.

How will his inclusion impact your fantasy selection?

At the beginning of the season, Callum Wilson was a consistent spark for the Cherries, bagging 5 goals in 7 appearances. With the arrival of Benik Afobe, a new potential budget striker has entered our fantasy realm. While at Wolverhampton, Afobe also took over PK duty, crucial experience to have in the top flight only adding to his potential fantasy investment if he can nail down that role. Taking a look at the upcoming fixture list, Bournemouth play West Ham, Norwich City, @Sunderland, and @Crystal Palace before hosting Arsenal. Certainly not a bad run of matches for Afobe to find his feet. Given Howe and the board shelled out 10mil for his services, you can bet he plays a big role until the end of the season.

Cheers,

Kellz