Bournemouth midfielder Ryan Christie has a lot of time for one of his outgoing teammates.

Christie hailed the departing Jefferson Lerma, who is set to sign for Crystal Palace on a free transfer.

Lerma will sign a five-year contract, ending his association with the Cherries that dates back to his transfer to the club in 2018.

Christie told the Daily Echo: “Jeff's an incredible player.

“He's played the most, if not up there with the most, minutes this season. There's a reason for that.

“It's because he's so important for us in that role we are getting from Jeff week in, week out, even the way he trains and his professionalism around the place.

“I don't think anybody would argue against that.

“If his future is elsewhere, then I think everybody would wish him all the very best.

“I know there'll be no hard feelings because of what he's given for this club."