Bournemouth Echo writer Alexander Smith has selected the side he expects Marco Rose to name when Lincoln City visit the Vitality Stadium tomorrow night, predicting significant rotation as the Cherries prepare for their first cup tie under the German.
The Imps will rotate, we know that, but what of the Cherries? They have two points from their opening three fixtures, and face a winnable game against Brentford on Saturday, followed by a trip to Spain for their first-ever European tie. Will they effectively forfeit the League Cup, or does the manager see a chance for progression and a bit of silverware?
Lincoln City fans might not know the intricacies of the Cherries squad: I don’t follow Premier League football, so it certainly helped me to see who Smith thinks might play. Hopefully, it helps you as well.
Here is Smith’s predicted Bournemouth XI and why he believes each player will start.
Michele Di Gregorio
Smith expects the Juventus loanee to make his Bournemouth debut because Marco Rose wants him match-sharp in case he is called upon.
Di Gregorio developed in Inter Milan’s academy before gaining senior experience during loan spells with Renate, Novara, Pordenone and Monza, helping the latter earn promotion to Serie A. Named Serie A’s best goalkeeper for 2023/24, he subsequently joined Juventus and made 84 appearances across two seasons before moving to Bournemouth on loan in August.
Julio Soler
Soler is tipped to replace Adrien Truffert at left-back as Rose rotates his defence during a busy run of fixtures.
Soler progressed through Lanús’ academy from the age of nine and made 72 senior appearances for the Argentine club after debuting in April 2022. Bournemouth signed the left-back in January 2025, while his international experience includes captaining Argentina Under-20s and representing their Under-23 side at the 2024 Olympics.
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