Bournemouth issue statement on Alex Jimenez after social media posts

Bournemouth have announced that defender Alex Jimenez will not be part of their squad for their Premier League fixture against Fulham on Saturday amid an ongoing investigation.

Posts relating to the 21-year-old right-back have circulated on social media.

The Cherries have released a statement, confirming that they have opened an investigation.

"AFC Bournemouth are aware of posts circulating on social media involving right-back Alex Jimenez," the statement reads.

"The club understands the seriousness of the matter and it is currently being investigated.

"As a result, Alex will not be included in the squad for tomorrow's Premier League game against Fulham and the club will be making no further comment at this time."

Jimenez, who signed for Bournemouth on a permanent deal from AC Milan in January after an initial loan spell, has made 31 appearances for the club this season.

He has played in every Premier League match for the Cherries since November, starting all bar one of those matches.

Bournemouth are in sixth place in the table with three games to play, and can still qualify for next season's Champions League. The club have never before played in a European competition.

Manager Andoni Iraola has confirmed that he will leave the club at the end of the season following three years in charge.

The Spaniard is being linked with the soon-to-be vacant role at Crystal Palace, with their manager Oliver Glasner also set to depart his post.

Bournemouth travel to Craven Cottage on Saturday to take on Fulham, before concluding their home campaign with a fixture against Manchester City next Tuesday.

Their final match of the season sees them face Nottingham Forest at the City Ground.

The Cherries haven't lost any of their last 15 Premier League matches, winning seven - including against leaders Arsenal - and drawing eight of them.