Alex Toth Shines Again For Hungary - Could He Fill In Alex Scott's Shoes?

Alex Toth working his way into a starting role for Hungary during this international break could prove to be a very important development for AFC Bournemouth.

With Alex Scott now set to miss several weeks after suffering a thigh injury while on England duty, Bournemouth suddenly have a significant hole to fill in midfield. Toth may not be the obvious replacement on paper due to Ryan Christie's positive start to the season, but his performances for Hungary suggest he could be ready to take on a much bigger role at club level.

The 20-year-old has featured in all three of Hungary's Nations League fixtures during this break, earning FotMob ratings all above 7.0, starting the last 2 games whilst also having a great impact off the bench during the goalless draw with Northern Ireland, where he was unlucky not to score.

Crucially, Toth has already had time to bed himself into Bournemouth's first-team environment. He has gained experience through substitute appearances in the Premier League and Europa League, while also getting valuable minutes in the EFL Cup. Cherries are lucky to still have 4 options to pick from in central midfield, which will gives Marco Rose a chance to rotate players and manage their loads too. 

There are clear similarities between Toth and Scott in terms of their midfield profiles. Both are technically capable players who can operate centrally, contribute defensively and help move the ball forward. Toth's versatility is particularly useful, with him capable of playing as a defensive, central or attacking midfielder.

That does not mean Bournemouth should expect Toth to simply replicate everything Scott provides. Scott has established himself as an important player for both club and country, and replacing his influence will be extremely difficult. However, Toth possesses many of the characteristics needed to step into a similar role, particularly if he continues to develop his confidence and consistency.

Cherries have a demanding period ahead, with Premier League and European football creating a relentless schedule before the next break. Scott's absence makes midfield depth even more important, and Toth has the chance to turn his international momentum into regular club minutes.

The biggest challenge will be performing consistently before Christmas. There is little room for players to ease themselves into form when fixtures are coming thick and fast, particularly with Europe involved. If Toth can take his Hungary performances back to the South Coast and translate them into strong displays for Bournemouth, he could give Marco Rose a genuine solution to the Scott injury woes.

This international break may therefore have arrived at the perfect time for Toth. What initially looked like an opportunity to gain international experience could now become the springboard for him to establish himself as an important player for Bournemouth during one of the busiest periods of the season.