Bournemouth had a poor start to the new season losing both of their two games so far. Their season-opener was against Manchester United who were playing their first League game under Jose Mourinho. It was probably on the cards that Eddie Howe’s side will fall short in front of the quality of the Red Devils’ squad right now who are relishing their life under Mourinho. Following their 3-1 loss to the 20-time English champions, a 1-0 loss away at West Ham awaited them but the performance from the Cherries was much improved.
Morecambe, a League Two side, look like a cakewalk for a quality side like Bournemouth but you can never get complacent in a Cup competition. Eddie Howe acquired a solid squad depth in the summer and games like this are opportunities to test it. Morecambe are in fine form winning all their last four games in all competitions and Bournemouth should not be too complacent as that could potentially backfire on them.
Here is the predicted Bournemouth lineup against Morecambe.
Defence
Adam Federici is likely to get his chance under the bar in the place of Artur Boruc. Adam Smith is likely to retain his place in the right-back position. Simon Francis and Nathan Ake are likely to pair up at the heart of the defence with Steve Cook being rested and Cargill and Wilson not fully fit. Summer signing from Liverpool, Brad Smith is likely to get his chance to shine in the left-back position.
Midfield
Dan Gosling and Eunan O’Kane are likely to start in the middle of the park with Arter and Surman rested and Lewis Cook and Emerson Hyndman injured. Marc Pugh and Max Gradel are likely to start on the flanks. Lewis Grabban is likely to start as the number ten. Jordon Ibe and Joshua King are likely to be rested for the game while Junior Stanislas missed through an injury.
Attack
Callum Wilson is likely to be rested in this game to keep him fresh for Saturday’s Premier League encounter against Crystal Palace. Benik Afobe could get an opportunity to prove his worth.
