CHERRIES duo Marcus Tavernier and Adam Smith could return for their side’s trip to Brentford this weekend – but boss Andoni Iraola may take caution with their returns.

Tavernier, a star turn under Gary O’Neil last term, picked up a knee injury in Marbella that has seen him sidelined, whilst veteran Adam Smith was struck by a muscle issue in the closing stages of Cherries’ pre-season campaign.

Neither have featured in any of Iraola’s competitive fixtures so far, but the Basque boss believes the pair are closest to playing some part on Saturday, when Cherries travel to London to face the Bees.

However, he hinted he may take a patient approach when it comes to reintegrating the duo into the team.

“Against Swansea almost we were the same team against Spurs,” Iraola shared.

“(Marcus) Tavernier and Adam Smith are, I would say, training partly with the team, maybe are the ones who could help us.

“I don't know if it's good for them to (feature) tomorrow, but I would say they are the closest to being part of the team.”

Aside from Tavernier and Smith, Cherries also have Tyler Adams, Alex Scott, Ryan Fredericks, Emi Marcondes, and Dango Ouattara currently out injured.