By Dan Davis (@dan_davis20)
AFC Bournemouth travel to Middlesbrough this Saturday after a run of good form, which has seen the Cherries lose only once in their last seven fixtures.
Bournemouth now stand in tenth place in the Premier League standings and head to the Riverside after impressive victories over the likes of Hull City and Everton in recent weeks.
Howe is facing a late gamble on the fitness of Junior Stanislas, who missed last week’s game with Everton through injury. Andrew Surman has recovered from his illness and will be available for selection.
Eddie Howe admitted before this weekend’s clash that he was pleased with how the season has gone so far, but stressed that his team must carry on their hard work to continue improving.
“I’m quite happy with how it’s gone so far,” the Cherries boss said.
“A lot of progress has been made in such a short period, but there’s still a lot more progress to be made to be the team we eventually want to be.
“We’re on the right track, but football can change so we have to keep our feet firmly on the floor and keep working hard.
“It’s lovely that we’re in the top ten, it’s a really good marker and we want to stay there as long as possible – it’s where we want to be of course.”
This weekend’s opponents, managed by Aitor Karanka, have had a mixed start to his year’s Premier League campaign. Currently residing in 17th place, on 7 points, Middlesbrough are without a win at home so far.
Despite Boro’s poor run of form so far, Howe was still complimentary about the Cherries’ opponents.
“I remember we had many solid battles in the Championship and it was an interesting rivalry.
“I remember they were unfortunate not to be promoted when we were, they did it the hard way and deserved it last season.
“They haven’t won at home, but they got a good point against Arsenal in a game they could have won – that’ll be a boost for them.
“I think it’s early stages to read a lot into what’s happened so far, it’s still early steps and I’m expecting a tight game.”
The match at the Riverside kicks off at 3pm tomorrow.