For the first time since his arrival from Swedish side Malmo, for a reported £2.5 million - a club record at the time), Tokelo Rantie is showing marked signs of improvement having been able to participate in a full pre-season build-up programme.
Following on from his contribution, made against Philadelphia Union, manager Eddie Howe is pleased with the progress made leading up to the start of the new Premiership season.
Manager Eddie Howe is quoted on the Clubs Official Web Site as saying: "Tokelo has followed on from where he has been at in training. He has looked razor sharp, strong and certain aspects of his game have really come on. We were really pleased for him to get on the scoresheet and get an assist and it was a good night for him. It has been a joy to see him mix with the players this week because it is one of the only times we have been able to bring him with us – usually he is away with South Africa. Hopefully, he will now feel more integrated with the squad than he ever has which can only help his form on the pitch.