CHERRIES boss Gary O'Neil believes Jefferson Lerma's poor showing at Old Trafford was a one off, sharing: "I think it happens as a footballer".

The Colombian's run as Cherries' only ever-present came to an end during the 3-0 defeat at the hands of Manchester United, the midfielder replaced by Joe Rothwell with six minutes to go.

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Lerma has started all 17 of Cherries' Premier League fixtures this campaign, playing a total of 1524 minutes out of a maximum 1530.

The 28-year-old's deal at the Vitality Stadium is set to expire this summer, with speculation linking the fan favourite to a return to Spain.

Whilst domestic clubs cannot approach Lerma until the end of his deal, clubs outside of England can now offer Cherries' club record signing deals, meaning he could leave the Dorset club for nothing.

Lerma did not win a tackle at Old Trafford, losing the ball on multiple occasions.

Asked about his midfield lynchpin's off night, O'Neil told the Daily Echo:"I think it happens as a footballer.
"Sometimes you have nights where your touch is slightly looser than it has been.

"I thought his work ethic, his work without the ball, what he does for the team was still incredible."

O'Neil went on to explain how the Colombian had been out with the virus that has impacted numerous members of the Cherries squad.

He restarted: "He’s missed a lot of training, there’s a lot of them that have.

"So, we need to make sure we get everyone back up to speed and try and make sure that the fitness and the freshness is where it was before the break and before the virus and stuff.

"But (against Manchester United) we looked more like us.

"I thought Lloyd Kelly was excellent as well. It’s good to get three lots of 90 minutes in him after a long time out."

Cherries return to action this weekend, when they host Burnley in the third round of the FA Cup.