Three reasons why Bournemouth’s bright start isn’t a fluke

Cherries now have Premier League nous

When Bournemouth came up to the Premier League in 2015, few expected them to survive more than one season. Their rise from League One to the upper echelons of English football was surely too much, they said.

And though there were struggles early on (the Cherries won only two of their first 14 games that season) they survived – haven’t looked back since.

Despite the odd wobble, two mid-table finishes have followed, and Bournemouth have established themselves in the top-flight. They’re only one season short now of Nottingham Forest and Ipswich’s five years in the Premier League.

It means Howe can now call upon a squad with plenty of Premier League experience under their belt.  With life outside the top-six so tightly contested, having that nous can be a crucial asset.

Never-say-die approach remains

One of Bournemouth’s greatest assets has been their work ethic. Other teams may have better quality players, but the Cherries will run themselves into the ground for a point or three.

That was readily evident last season. Howe’s men collected a whopping 21 points from losing positions – six more than any other side.

And it’s clear that Howe’s ethos remains this term. They went 1-0 down away at West Ham before winning 2-1, and Everton went 2-0 up on Saturday.

But in familiar fashion, Bournemouth scored twice in the final 15 minutes to grab a draw.  They’ve already collected four points from losing positions this term.

The road ahead

Howe says he thinks the squad is ready to win trophies. It’s the latest indication that Bournemouth no longer think about avoiding relegation. They’re looking up and forwards.

The Cherries have backed their manager. The manager knows his squad, and the squad will give everything for the manager. That’s a formula for success right there.

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