Eddie Howe wants his Bournemouth side to be ‘right at it’ as they prepare to face champions Manchester City this weekend.
The Cherries 5-1 defeat to Arsenal in midweek further added to Bournemouth’s miserable record against the Premier League’s ‘top six’, with Howe’s side having suffered nine defeats in 10 meetings with those sides so far this season.
Ahead of the visit of Pep Guardiola’s side, Howe has insisted his side have the capabilities to cause an upset but insists his side must play to their potential.
“We know we have the capabilities and qualities to beat anyone at home. It’ll be tough and we’ll need everyone – players, fans, staff – right at it,” Howe told his -pre-match press conference.
Welsh midfielder David Brooks, who began his youth career at City, is fit to return from injury although Howe was cautious on whether the 21-year-old would be involved.
“He’s fit enough to be involved and the injury is fine, but we need him to be right at it. Again, we’ll assess him ahead of the game and make a late decision.”