Premier League manager lands new role in the grassroots game – just hours after leading his club to a win

A Premier League manager gave back to the grassroots game as he took up his flag and became a linesman for a day. 

The popular boss traded his hopes of Champions League football to volunteer at a local club and rule young girls offside.

Andoni Iraola was pictured by an onlooker looking focused on the job as he ran the line at a match for Merley FC vs Lilliput in an under-11s game on Saturday morning.

He had some free time on his hands after masterminding Bournemouth‘s 3-1 win over Fulham on Friday night, and no immediate games to plan for with the international break upon us. 

The 43-year-old had to cope without VAR, but seemingly did an adequate job ss Merley’s Facebook post was very grateful – though they didn’t credit him as an official.

‘What an incredible morning for our Falcons!’ the club wrote. 

The night before, he led Bournemouth to a 3-1 victory over Fulham, with the Cherries sat fourth

‘Andoni Iraola was pitchside watching their game against Lilliput.

‘Amazing to see the main man himself showing support for grassroots football, where it all begins for these young players.’

The Spaniard had a big smile on his face as he volunteered for the club in Dorset. 

It’s just another incident which will boost Iraola’s reputation after a brilliant start to the season.

Despite seeing some of his key players depart over the summer, Iraola has the Cherries flying in fourth, just two points off first-placed Arsenal.

Antoine Semenyo continued his superb start to the season with a double against Fulham, while Justin Kluivert also got on the scoresheet.