Sunday 17 December 2017 19:55, UK
Eddie Howe admits Bournemouth are in the midst of a relegation battle after being thrashed by Liverpool on Nissan Super Sunday.
In a blistering display of skill, pace and ruthless finishing, Liverpool won 4-0 with strikes from Philippe Coutinho (20), Dejan Lovren (26), Mohamed Salah (44) and Roberto Firmino (66).
The defeat was the Cherries' fifth home defeat this season and they are hovering above the relegation zone by just one point with an ominous trip to Manchester City next up in the Premier League.
"We were in a relegation battle in our first season, our second season and it's the same this season," Howe said.
"That is the case for the majority of teams that aren't in the top six or seven places.
"The only thing that has changed is the perception and the expectation from everyone around us.
"We're well aware of what we need to do and we need to be strong internally to make sure that happens."
The defeat meant Bournemouth slipped to their sixth league match without a win and although Liverpool were at times scintillating, Howe was disappointed with his team's application.
"That was difficult - there have not been many times since I've been Bournemouth manager that I've felt quite like this after a match," he said.
"But the key thing is how we respond but that was a disappointing watch. You want to give so much more to the supporters of the club. It's a very high profile match and we haven't performed, so naturally we feel that responsibility."
