"It happens" – Andoni Iraola sends message to Spurs striker Dominic Solanke after latest decision

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Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola says he is 'very happy' to see Dominic Solanke return to the England squad but insists the call-up doesn't come as a surprise.

Lee Carsley called up Solanke for the upcoming Uefa Nations League matches against Greece and Finland, seven years after his first and only previous cap, when he came off the bench in a 0-0 friendly draw against Brazil at Wembley.

The call-up is a reward for Solanke notching three goals and an assist in his last three starts across all competitions after a tough first few weeks as a Tottenham player following his big-money summer move from Bournemouth.

Of course, you could say Solanke's international return was also helped by his 21-goal haul for Bournemouth last season — including 19 in the Premier League.

Solanke's manager at the Vitality Stadium, Iraola, certainly isn't surprised to see his former striker return to the international scene.

"I'm very happy and pleased," Iraola said (via BBC Sport). "It is not a surprise. I think he was deserving of the call-up even last season. I'm happy that he now has the chance and I'm sure he is going to play well."

National team managers 'pay more attention' to certain clubs, Iraola claims

Many thought Solanke should have gone to Euro 2024 with England over the summer after finishing only behind Erling Haaland, Cole Palmer and Alexander Isak in the 2023/24 Premier League Golden Boot race.

However, Iraola believes the 27-year-old was snubbed due to the club he was playing for and that he can expect more opportunities moving forward with Spurs.

"I think it happens in every country," the Spanish manager said. "When they see you playing for teams that play in Europe, they pay more attention. It is the same everywhere.

"Last season, I think Dom was incredible for us — not only for the goals he scored but his performances overall were amazing. He probably deserved the call-up before now.

"But I'm very happy for him, even if he isn't our player anymore. We wish him all the best and I was very pleased that he was called up."

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