Alex Scott has praised Andoni Iraola’s influence after earning a Premier League Player of the Month nomination. The midfielder played every minute in April as Bournemouth extended their unbeaten run to 14 games, boosting their European hopes ahead of the season run-in.
Alex Scott has credited Andoni Iraola for playing a key role in his development after earning a nomination for the Premier League’s Player of the Month award, which was announced today.
The 22-year-old midfielder has been ever-present for AFC Bournemouth throughout April, helping the Cherries extend their unbeaten league run to an impressive 14 matches. His consistency and influence in midfield have been central to the club’s strong form during a crucial stage of the season.
Scott finds himself among a competitive shortlist that includes Jarrod Bowen and Konstantinos Mavropanos of West Ham United, Rayan Cherki and Nico O'Reilly from Manchester City, Morgan Gibbs-White of Nottingham Forest, Pascal Groß representing Brighton & Hove Albion, and Noah Okafor of Leeds United.
Bournemouth’s standout April included eye-catching victories away at Arsenal and Newcastle United, as well as a home draw against Leeds. Scott played a decisive role in the win at the Emirates Stadium, scoring a composed 74th-minute winner to stun the title-chasing Gunners and underline his growing importance to the side.
Reflecting on his progress, Scott was quick to praise Iraola’s influence both on and off the pitch. In a chat with afcb.co.uk, he highlighted the Spaniard’s role in improving him as a player and guiding the team through a highly competitive campaign.
“He’s a great head coach and a great person,” Scott said. “He has helped me a lot and improved me a lot, so obviously I am going to be grateful for him. Of course, he is leaving at the end of the season, so we want to finish on a high for him after all the hard work and commitment he has put into this football club and us as players.”
REUTERS/Ian WaltonScott’s performances throughout April showcased his maturity and reliability. Playing every minute of Bournemouth’s fixtures, he demonstrated exceptional stamina, composure under pressure, and an ability to link play effectively in midfield.
While his goal return remains modest, his overall contribution - winning duels, progressing the ball, and dictating tempo - has been vital in keeping Bournemouth in the hunt for a potential European place.
With four games remaining, Scott and his teammates are determined to maintain their momentum and give Iraola the send-off his impact deserves - plus, he himself will be hoping his showings can also tempt Thomas Tuchel into including him in England's World Cup squad too.
Cherries fans are invited to vote for Alex Scott on the Premier League website, where the vote closes at 12:00 BST on Monday 4th May.