CHERRIES boss Andoni Iraola says Antoine Semenyo is “making the difference” with his performances in recent months.

The 24-year-old came off the bench to tee up Justin Kluivert to score the only goal of the game in Tuesday night’s win over Crystal Palace.

Semenyo’s performances in March, in which he scored goals against Burnley and Luton Town, have seen him nominated for the Premier League player of the month award.

He is bidding to become the second Cherries player of the season to win the gong, after Dominic Solanke for December.

Semenyo faces stiff competition, part of a seven-man shortlist alongside the likes of Cole Palmer, Son Heung-min, Ben White and Alexis Mac Allister.

Bournemouth Echo: Antoine Semenyo came off the bench to help Cherries beat Crystal Palace

Discussing the Ghana international’s nomination, Iraola told the Daily Echo: “Antoine is performing really well. He is making the difference.

“He is now adding the numbers.

“He had an injury in the tibia and didn’t do a proper pre-season, but after just two or three training sessions, he performed in the first game of the season against West Ham.

“From there, he has been doing really well.

“He has been also adding some endurance, he is finishing some games and he is becoming a better player, I agree.”

It is not only Semenyo up for a Premier League award for Cherries’ efforts during an unbeaten March.

Iraola has been nominated for manager of the month, Neto is up for best save and Solanke for best goal.

“This is about a collective effort,” insisted Iraola.

“I always tell the players, if we are collectively doing good things, winning games and playing well, everyone will think you are a better player.

“Even if you are not adding your numbers, but the team are doing well, you are a more valuable player.

“If you are not playing well collectively, you will be less valued. This starts with something collective.

“Sometimes you add things to the team that don’t reflect in the numbers, but don’t worry, people who understand about the sport will know that this is a valuable player, even if he doesn’t score goals or make assists, he makes the team better.

“I try to pick the players that make us better. This is the key for everyone involved with the team.”

Semenyo scored twice when Cherries came from behind to stun Luton and win 4-3 at Vitality Stadium last month.

The two do battle again at the second smallest ground in the league tomorrow, in Iraola’s first trip to Kenilworth Road (3pm).