Ibe an “integral” part of Bournemouth squad reveals Howe – A boost for Sinclair and Morgan?

Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe has played down the speculation linking Jordan Ibe with a surprise move to Celtic, but does that give Scott Sinclair and Lewis Morgan a boost?

According to the Bournemouth Echo, Howe has rejected the likelihood of Ibe leaving the Cherries amid interest in him and claimed he is an important figure for the Premier League side when asked about whether he will allow the winger to leave.

No, Jordon is an integral part of our squad.

So does this give the likes of Sinclair and Morgan a boost?

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Both Morgan and Sinclair would have feared the worst after hearing of Celtic’s reported interest in Ibe, the latter especially given his lack of game time thus far this season.

Neil Lennon has appeared to favour Morgan over Sinclair so far in the absence of Mikey Johnston, who missed the first leg against CFR Cluj and the victory over Motherwell.

While Morgan has featured seven times this season, playing over 400 minutes, the former Manchester City man has been limited to just four substitute appearances in all competitions this season, playing a lowly total of 56 minutes.

The arrival of Ibe would have no doubt further impacted Sinclair’s lack of game time this season, while Morgan’s development would have also potentially suffered a setback. 

Howe ruling out the departure of the winger, however, could give the pair a boost that they will still have a part to play; though maybe less-so for Sinclair.