Fabian Hurzeler has revealed the discussion in Japan which helped matchwinner Kaoru Mitoma cause Bournemouth problems from kick-off.

The Albion winger slid home a superb finish after returning from action in the Far East.

Mitoma, benched after his previous globe-trotting jaunt, finished expertly after a brilliant pass by Joao Pedro, who scored the opener in a 2-1 success.

Limited playing time with his country in China on Tuesday allowed Mitoma to play a full part for his club.

Albion boss Hurzeler said: “I think it is important you see the data of what they did in their national teams.

“He played I think only 25 minutes in the second game for Japan so he was in a different condition when he came back.

“That was why we made the decision to let him start.

“It is so important to take care of the health of the players because we have a lot of games.

“They play here, they try to do their best for their national teams.”

It is understood Mitoma spoke to national team boss Hajime Moriyasu ahead of the China game, with Japan all but qualified for the World Cup.

Hurzeler said: “I think he talked to the coach before and it was a decision they made together.

“I didn’t feel that he was disappointed – more the opposite!”

Albion had to do a lot of defensive work and secured the points despite seeing Carlos Baleba sent off.

Pervis Estupinan came through a gruelling 90 minutes four days after playing for Ecuador in Colombia – also with ten men.