As reported, Jimenez was left out of the squad for Saturday’s trip to Fulham on Friday, after social media posts circulated involving the right back.
Jimenez has started all but one game since the start of December and had played 85 minutes or more in all but two of those games, with Smith getting limited minutes in that time.
But with the Spaniard suspended, the Cherries club captain had to start at Craven Cottage, and Iraola praised Smith for his efforts.
Bournemouth’s Adam Smith (left) and Bournemouth’s Marcus Tavernier after the final whistle during the Premier League match at Craven Cottage, London. (Image: Ben Whitley/PA Wire)
Asked how he made sure that the Jimenez situation did not derail the side’s mindset heading into the Fulham game, Iraola said: “I think you have to separate a little bit the football side, from the rest.
“I think today you have to praise, from my side, Adam Smith.
“Probably he didn’t expect until yesterday to play, and then you have to play, you have to start, you have to cover [Samuel] Chukwueze, you have to cover Kevin, and he survived all the game.
“He was massive defensively. And from my side, the side that I would like to praise is how Adam Smith has reacted, especially him.”
The boss hailed the group’s mentality and desire to play for the team.
“I think they are showing me now every day, this group of players, that they want it a lot,” he said.
“They are pushing a lot and everyone is fighting to be available.
“Today, Justin [Kluivert], I wanted to give him some minutes but how the game has gone has been difficult but he’s pushing.
Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola after the final whistle during the Premier League match at Craven Cottage, London. (Image: Ben Whitley/PA Wire)
“Lewis Cook is going to be for sure ready for the next one.
“So I think we will have everyone available for the next one and I hope, we have two very difficult games, we can keep this mentality until the end.”
Iraola was also asked if he expected Jimenez to be available for selection again this season.
He said: “Right now, there are investigations ongoing, and I cannot get involved there.
“I don’t know how much will it take, but we have to wait until the investigations clarify a little bit the situation.”