Manchester United loanee Ethan Laird set for Bournemouth debut after showing 'glimpses' of class

Bournemouth manager Scott Parker says he has been impressed by Manchester United loanee Ethan Laird, despite the youngster not yet playing a competitive minute for the Cherries.

The United defender completed a move to the south coast in January, cutting short his spell with Swansea City, but a hamstring injury has prevented him from making his debut.

Parker is looking to help Bournemouth back into the top flight after their relegation under Eddie Howe, and so far he has made solid progress as they sit second in the table - in the automatic promotion places - with two games in hand over their nearest challengers.

With Laird's return to action on the horizon, Parker has admitted he's excited to see what he can do.

"It’s been tough. Him and Kieffer [Moore], it’s been tough for both of them, he said via Bournemouth Echo.

"Ethan has come in and obviously not played a minute at this present moment in time.

"Of course, I think it’s been difficult for him. He is on the right path now, can’t look back now. He is close and he is edging closer.

"He has been with the team the past week or so, so he is moving in the right direction. There is still a lot of football to be played, still loads of games to come, so I am looking forward to seeing Ethan.

"I’ve seen glimpses of him in training which I have been very impressed with. We brought him here because he can add to this squad.

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"We have brought him here because he adds quality and he can bring competition and certainly help us. I am looking forward to him doing that.

On Thursday, he noted: “Maybe Swansea is an option. We will have to see.

“He has two hard days planned, today and tomorrow [Thursday and