Ryan Fraser won’t play for Bournemouth again, Eddie Howe confirms

Fraser, whose contract expires later this month, declined to sign a short-term extension to remain at the Vitality Stadium until the end of the prolonged Premier League season

Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe says wantaway winger Ryan Fraser has played his last game for the relegation-threatened club.

Fraser, whose contract expires later this month, declined to sign a short-term extension to remain at the Vitality Stadium until the end of the prolonged Premier League season.

The 26-year-old will not be involved in Saturday’s home game against Crystal Palace or next week’s trip to Wolves as the 18th-placed Cherries scrap for survival.

Howe expressed regret at the circumstances of Fraser’s impending departure on a free transfer but wants to select players who are prepared to fight “tooth and nail” for the cause.

“I don’t think I was particularly surprised by his decision. I think it’s been clear to us as a club for some time that Ryan wasn’t going to sign a new contract with us,” Howe said at a press conference.

“He’s now played his last game for the football club, he won’t be involved with us for the last nine games. I only want players who are fully focused on the relegation battle that we have ahead and I’m looking forward to doing that with my squad.

“These are the most important games this football club has had in recent times and we need everybody in the same position mentally, fighting tooth and nail, giving everything for the football club and Ryan unfortunately, due to his contractual situation, can’t commit to that.”

Scotland international Fraser joined the Cherries from Aberdeen in January 2013 and made 208 appearances, scoring 24 times.

He won the supporters’ player of the year award for the 2018-19 campaign.

“He didn’t deserve this ending but circumstances have arose that has made this happen,” Howe added.

“I’m sad for him because he’s had a really good link with the supporters, they’ve really loved him in his time here.

“For it to end the way that it has done is uncomfortable for me, lots of sad emotions for me because it shouldn’t have ended like this.”