Julio Soler. _(Image: Richard Crease)_
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CHERRIES boss Andoni Iraola hinted that young defender Julio Soler is ready to step up and fill the void left by suspended Milos Kerkez for Sunday’s high-stakes FA Cup quarter-final against Manchester City.
Kerkez will miss the clash following the booking he received after an incident with Matheus Cunha in the previous round of the FA Cup, with the Brazilian sent off.
However, Iraola remains confident in his squad depth, pointing to Soler as a possible contender to start.
“I will not give you the team, but he’s definitely ready,” Iraola said when asked about Soler
The [Cherries](http://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/sport/cherries/clubnews/) boss emphasised the importance of managing more than just the starting lineup, especially with the added unpredictability of cup football.
He said, “We have options. I think we have to think about the starting 11, but also who finishes the games because there is also the possibility of extra time or for the penalties,
“You have to be ready for other scenarios that can happen,
“The players who come from the bench I think are important and we will try to make the right call.”
With a place in the semi-finals and a chance to play at Wembley at stake, Iraola is focused on making smart tactical decisions. The game kicks off on Sunday at 4.30pm at the Vitality Stadium.