Eddie Howe has undoubtedly done a magnificent job with the Cherries this season. Not only have they survived their second season in the Premier League but they have done it brilliantly, finishing in the 9th position at the top half of the table above regulars like West Ham United, Stoke City, Leicester City, and Crystal Palace.
And what is more important is that no one could criticise them as a one season wonder like Leicester City. The Cherries, under Howe, have improved every season gradually and looks like long-term residents in the Premier League now.
Here are the stars and duds from the season-
Stars
Joshua King- The 25-year-old Norwegian international has turned many heads with his outstanding ability to find the net. The Cherries approached every game as an underdog and King didn’t fail to turn up in the biggest of platforms. He has scored 16 goals and registered two assists in 36 league outings with a shooting accuracy of 60%. He was the end product of all the beautiful football Bournemouth play.
Jack Wilshere- The Arsenal loanee didn’t have the season he needed to make an impression for Arsene Wenger and it ended with a customary injury at the end. But, he was still a crucial part of Bournemouth’s campaign in the middle. He brought solid defensive and offensive contribution in the attacking midfield, winning 60% of his average duels and keeping 84% passing accuracy.
Steve Cook- Probably the best player for the Cherries this season, the centre-half has been a revelation this season. He has been a solid rock for Howe at the back, winning 61% of his average duels and having a decent 81% passing accuracy from the deep midfield. Already a lot of top Premier League top sides are eyeing him and he might leave Vitality Stadium this summer.
Duds
Marc Pugh- Not starting the season as the first-choice, the English winger was quite a regular in the second of the season. He was a constant presence on that left wing and made his presence felt. He scored two goals and registered three assists with a 46% shot accuracy.
Dan Gosling- Alongside Harry Arter, Gosling was regular in the double pivot in the first half of the season. But his form dipped forever it seemed as he was relegated to the bench. His work rate decreased as he won only 44% of his average duels and achieved a 31% shot accuracy.
Benik Afobe- The former Arsenal forward had an underwhelming season with the Cherries. Apart from King, he was the only forward Howe used regularly. In 31 league appearances, he scored only six goals and registering three assists. He was needed to win duels in the opponent’s D-box with his big physique but he failed, winning only 40% of his average duels.
