The expectations that arose with Leicester City’s mauling of Manchester City last weekend, were clogged when a brilliant Bournemouth side brought the defending champions back to earth with a win.
Eddie Howe’s side saw 70% of the ball before the break and Marc Pugh scored for the hosts with a controlled drive from 18 yards out. The win has taken them to the eighth position in the league table and within catching distance to Everton and Manchester United.
They next host Southampton in the weekend and given their home record this season, the Cherries look firm favourites to win the game. They have collected 16 points from 8 matches, which is the fifth-best home record in the league this season. The Saints, on the other hand, have collected only five points from seven matches.
Defence
After returning for the Burnley game, Artur Boruc looked quite rusty. However, he was on top form against Leicester. His one-on-one shutting out of Jamie Vardy was brilliant, which otherwise could have changed the result.
The Chelsea loanee, Nathan Ake, should start alongside Steve Cook at the heart of the Bournemouth defence as they have been the preferred duo for Howe. Charlie Daniels has been quite disciplined against Leicester City and will take his position on the right flank. The right defensive flank is pretty much owned by their skipper Francis now. He starts on the left back position as Adam Smith has really shone on the wings.
Midfield
Bournemouth’s central midfield has always found itself comfortable with Harry Arter and Dan Gosling. In a quite surprising move, Howe started Arter with Arsenal loanee Jack Wilshere in the holding midfield positions. However, it worked quite well in the previous game.
We expect Howe to fall back to his old setup against the Saints who have a good defence and will need a natural playmaker to unlock. Hence, Gosling will come back to take his position and Wilshere will play in the central attacking midfield position. It means Joshua King could start from the bench.
Attack
Ryan Fraser could well start on the bench as Marc Pugh took his chance brilliantly against the Foxes. The composure he displayed in his first league match of the season was beautiful and Howe would definitely like to explore the English midfielder further. Adam Smith has been too good on the wings and by for the most impactful player for the Cherries at the moment. Callum Wilson will start as the striker.
