Former Sheffield United midfielder, David Brooks, has returned to training this week in what could be a huge boost for Bournemouth.
The Welshman has been missing for much of the season but returned to training this week. Eddie Howe will be hoping Brooks’ return can kick-start a revival of sorts for his struggling Cherries team.
David Brooks has missed all of this season for Bournemouth an ankle injury. (Photo by AFC Bournemouth/AFC Bournemouth via Getty Images)
After arriving on the south coast for a fee of around £12m, Brooks immediately impressed. But a number of injuries, including a damaging ankle knock this season, have limited his progress somewhat.
However, the Welsh midfielder will be hoping that his latest return is the last of his injury worries. Having burst onto the scene with Sheffield United, Brooks will hope to finally fulfill his massive potential and prove what the Premier League has been missing.
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A proven commodity already
Despite still only being 22, the Bournemouth man is a proven Premier League player. Eddie Howe immediately thrust him into the limelight last season and he repaid Howe’s faith with a seven-goal return.
That is something the Cherries have missed this season. Indeed, it’s not just goals but the threat that Brooks brings to the table.
According to stats from Premierleague.com, Brooks was highly effective in his attacking play last term. As well as scoring seven and assisting a further five times, Brooks also created nine big chances. Furthermore, he also missed eight big chances of his own, showing he gets into dangerous goal-scoring positions.
David Brooks enjoyed a fine first season in the Premier League last time out. (Photo by Charlie Crowhurst/Getty Images)
Brooks also played ten more through balls than Cherries danger man, Ryan Fraser last time. Granted, Fraser stands head and shoulders above all the Bournemouth squad when it comes to chances created and assists (14 last season).
However, it proves that Brooks is a vital cog in Eddie Howe’s system. Furthermore, Fraser’s influenced has lessened this term. The Scot has scored just the once and provided only four assists.
Eddie Howe, then, will be hoping David Brooks can be the man to fire his team to glory.
Sheffield United fans, on the other hand, will be pleased to see one of their best young talents in recent times finally getting the chance to showcase his talents.
