ANDONI Iraola explained Justin Kluivert’s substitution during AFC Bournemouth’s 2-2 draw with Manchester United was not due to injury but instead because “he was dead”.

Dutchman Kluivert scored the second of Cherries’ goals in a game in which they dominated, Manchester United helped by two controversial penalty shouts.

The former Ajax man was a threat throughout, but as usual, Kluivert was removed before the final whistle.

His final interaction in the game was a shot that was robustly blocked by Harry Maguire, Kluivert colliding with the England international and going down with cramp.

Kluivert could be seen limping at the final whistle, but Iraola believes there is no further injury.

Asked by the Daily Echo whether Kluivert had picked up an issue, Iraola responded: “No, he was dead.

“He was dead because as we know, it's a very long game.

“(The referee) added nine minutes in the first half.

“So we played another nine ten minutes more in the second half.

“So it has been a very long game, and I think it's just the cramps from that.

“He was tired.”

Kluivert and Cherries return to action next weekend, when they face Aston Villa away from home on Sunday, April 21 (3pm).