SCOTT Parker believes Jack Stacey did "very well" on his return to Cherries' starting XI.

After Jordan Zemura tested positive for COVID-19 on Friday, Stacey was parachuted into the side to face Manchester City, playing in an unfamiliar left-wing-back role against Premier League champions.

If that were not a daunting enough proposal for a first competitive appearance in five months, Stacey was also walking a tightrope for the majority of the contest having been booked for scything down Riyad Mahrez after just four minutes.

But the 26-year-old recovered well, completing the full 90 minutes on his first outing since a 1-1 draw with former club Reading back in March in the Championship.

Stacey was powerless to prevent City charging to a 4-0 victory at the Etihad, but boss Parker was happy with what he saw from his defender.

Asked how he felt the ex-Luton Town man performed out-of-position, given he was on a booking from early into the contest, Parker told the Daily Echo: "It was brilliant for Stace in that sense.

"He’s not really been around it either this pre-season, to be honest with you.

"Obviously JZ coming out and the depth of our squad, Stace has come in and got booked early.

"Of course, there’s big risks that come with that.

"But I thought he did very well to be fair to him. I was pleased for him."