AFC Bournemouth welcome Newcastle to the Vitality Stadium this weekend desperately needing three points as they attempt to drag themselves clear of the relegation zone.
The game will signify the long-awaited homecoming of former Bournemouth manager, Eddie Howe, who is still much loved amongst the Bournemouth faithful. Despite having a connection with AFC Bournemouth for over 10 years, Howe will be wanting to take all three points back to Newcastle as their top 4 quest continues.
Recent fixtures have not gone the way that many Bournemouth fans would have hoped. The Cherries are without a league win since November and have only scored three goals in eight games in all competitions. Last time out at Brighton, a valiant effort resulted in zero points as an 87th minute strike from Karou Mitoma secured all three points for Brighton.
Newcastle however have suffered a small dip in form of their own. Just one win in five in the Premier League leaves the Magpies just about clinging onto the top 4. Just one point above Tottenham, but with a game in hand.
Gary O’Neil spoke to the media, including Nerve Sport, on Friday afternoon.
On the injury front, O’Neil detailed that many players had good weeks training on the grass but did not specify which players would be back in time for the Newcastle trip.
On the recent performance away at Brighton O’Neil said: “If you take the game in isolation, there were positives but also an understanding that the points need to match the performance levels we are putting in. I thought we looked a threat but it’s no good having so many positives with no points.”
O’Neil was keen to emphasise that: “My aim and target is to keep AFC Bournemouth in the Premier League.”He accepted that injuries had played a big part this campaign and feels results will come when he gets the team back to full strength.
On Eddie Howe and the Newcastle match specifically, O’Neil commented: “He’s done a fantastic job and they are in a great spot in the league, but the lads are in a good place and it’s a game we can go into and try and win. If we can get a couple of positive results things can turn around very quickly.”
In some big news regarding the club as a whole, O’Neil announced: “Neto will be our new club captain. He’s an impressive individual on and off the pitch, real leadership qualities. Lloyd did well in the role, this season has been tricky for him injury-wise.”
O’Neil continued on saying Adam Smith would be the vice-captain. While keen to keep key conversations private, O’Neil admitted that Lloyd Kelly was “disappointed” by the news, but emphasised Kelly knew it would benefit the team.
In other big news for the football club, it has been confirmed today that Jaidon Anthony has signed a new contract with the club until 2027.
The fast-paced winger joined the club at age 16 and has taken extremely well to life in the Premier League. 3 goals so far this season plus a string of strong performances have made him a firm favourite under Gary O’Neil and with the fans. There had been talk of Anthony moving to other clubs, but the news today will be welcomed by all Bournemouth fans. Speaking about his contract extension. Anthony said:
“Buzzing it’s finally done, get my head down, get back to work and do my best for the rest of the season.
“You try to blank out background noise, I’ve always been focussed on here and now and now I can focus on Bournemouth and give my best for this club. I love this club and I’ve wanted to be a part of it for a long time. We can do some great things and hopefully I can help that”.
O’Neil himself was delighted that Anthony has agreed a deal: “I love Jaidon, he’s a great lad. I’m pleased that he’s signed a new deal. He’s a fantastic member of the group, willing to put the team over himself and great news that he’ll be here after the end of the season.”
AFC Bournemouth vs Newcastle United kicks off at 17:30 on Saturday 11th February, full coverage will be available on Nerve Sport's Twitter and across our website.