Ian Harte

Last week Ian Harte became Bournemouth's second signing of the summer, joining fellow defender Elliott Ward on the newly promoted club's books. Aged 35, Harte is certainly a very experienced footballer, boasting a career that has seen him play in the Premier League, World Cup and La Liga. Harte has earned 63 international caps in his career and The Cherries are his 7th club since he began his career at Leeds United.

Harte scoring vs Spain in the 2002 World Cup

To gain an insight into the player we have signed, I found a Reading fan (@Jamie_Hodder21) who was kind enough to answer a few questions for me about Ian Harte.

Firstly, could you briefly introduce yourself?

Hello, my name is Jamie Hodder im 21 and I'm a Reading Season ticket holder. Been a life long fan of the Royals. My Grandad took me to my first ever game and since then I've been hooked. The last 7/8 years have seen us become a stronger side and promotion contenders year after year. Just hoping the next 7/8 years we can see ourselves cement our place in the Premier League. 

Ian Harte spent 3 seasons at Reading, would you consider his spell at the Madjeski successful?

Over the 3 seasons Harte spent at the Madejski I think the majority of Reading fans would definitely see his spell as a successful one. Brian McDermott took a risk bringing him to Reading as many people doubted him at this level considering his age. While at Reading he saw himself get to a Play off final, become a League Winner and obviously make a return to the premier league which showed all doubters he could do it. He quickly became a fan favourite and his performances were fantastic. 

Harte is a veteran of the game now, but do you think he is still capable of playing at this level?

Ian Harte as you said is a veteran of the game. He has been around a very long time and probably knows the game better than anyone. As he is approaching the later years in his career it is obvious to see his lack of pace which will be seen as a weakness and many wingers may try and exploit this. Having said that, his experience can make up for it and you may see him give himself a few yards to position himself then make the tackle. In the Premier League where the wingers and forwards are world class, his positioning couldn't help him. He was torn to pieces in some games he just couldn't keep up, but looking at the championship this season, I could still see him doing a very good job. But only time will tell! 

Are his set-pieces as good as they say?

Ian Harte's set pieces. They talk for themselves. They are probably not AS good as they used to be, but if you have a decent striker on the end of it, he will put the ball in the right place every time. In our promotion winning season in 2011/12, his set pieces were vital, he came up with many balls into the box that caused alot of trouble for defenders, not to mention the goals he scored straight from free kicks (Middlesbrough away a personal favourite). His penalty taking is also a highlight although i do remember him missing a few! Give him the chance to put a ball in the box and he will punish you. I think you'll be surprised at the amount of chances you'll make from his magical left foot. 

Finally, will you be making the trip to Dean Court this season?

Yes I definitely plan on coming down for the Game at Dean Court. Sadly many of our fans are annoyed that its on a night, many of us wanted a weekend at the beach! But that aside I think you'll see a good atmosphere when we come down. Looking forward to it as I've never been to Dean Court before. I'm sure Harte will get a superb Reception both times we play you! Good luck for the season!! 

Welcome to Bournemouth, Ian.