ANDONI Iraola says he did not sit down and try to convince Philip Billing to stay at Cherries, insisting: “These are decisions that players have to take.”

Billing was heading into the final year of his contract at Cherries, before penning a fresh four-year deal last month, tying him to the club until 2027.

The 26-year-old has been one of Cherries’ key performers in recent years, having joined the club from Huddersfield Town in 2019.

Asked if he sat down with Billing to try and persuade him to stay after becoming boss this summer, Iraola told the Daily Echo: “No, I don’t think we should try to convince him.

“I think these are decisions that players have to take.

“We are talking about their future. They are smart enough, Philip is smart enough to know that he would have other options, for sure.

“But for me it is very big news, because we keep Philip, who I consider a very good player.

“Also because in his situation he has decided to bet for AFC Bournemouth. I think it is very good for everyone.”

Billing has started in all five matches so far this season under Iraola, completing the full 90 minutes on four occasions.