MARCUS Tavernier is a big fan of new Cherries teammate Milos Kerkez, insisting: “He brings a lot of energy to the team.”

Kerkez has impressed since his reported £15.5million switch from AZ Alkmaar in the summer.

The 19-year-old has not yet missed a minute of Premier League action, slotting in seamlessly at left-back.

After for his early impressions of Kerkez, who has been away on international duty with Hungary, Cherries winger Tavernier told the Daily Echo: “He’s a mad man! He’s great, I love that guy to pieces.

“He brings a lot of energy to the team when it’s quiet and stuff.

“He has come into the team and been great. I’m just hoping he can continue his form and continue playing well.”

Put to him that Kerkez looks confident and settled already despite only just arriving, Tavernier said: “100 per cent.

“When he first came in, the first two days, you’d think he’d been here five years and he’s the oldest player in the team.

“He’s a great guy and I’m happy for him.”

Kerkez will be expected to start again when Cherries return to action in the Premier League on Sunday, hosting Chelsea (2pm).