Tuesday 9 August 2016 10:46, UK
As we preview the new Premier League season, we pick out five questions for Bournemouth.
What have they done in the transfer market?
Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe has spent more than £20m in bringing two Liverpool fringe players to the club, forking out for left-sided player Brad Smith and talented winger Jordon Ibe. Howe has prioritised youngsters in his transfer work this summer.
As well as the Liverpool pair, Nathan Ake has joined on a season-long loan from Chelsea and fellow midfielder Lewis Cook appears a shrewd addition from Leeds United. Lys Mousset, a 20-year-old French forward from Le Havre, will provide competition up front.
What does the manager say?
On speculation about the England job… "It was no different for me and my focus was always 100 per cent at Bournemouth and I think I have shown that throughout the summer with the transfer dealings and the last thing on your mind is walking out and leaving them. It may have been a distraction for other people but for me it was business as usual."
What's the pundit verdict?
Paul Merson says: "Some people might be shocked by this, but I think Bournemouth might go down. They play good football, but at the end of last season teams were getting used to the way they were playing and became a lot cuter against them. This season they could struggle."
Some people might be shocked by this, but I think Bournemouth might go down.
What's your prediction?
Bournemouth are 1000/1 with Sky Bet to lift the Premier League title and 100/1 to finish among the top four. The Cherries are 7/2 to be relegated and 16/1 to finish bottom. Callum Wilson is 66/1 to be the Premier League top scorer.
