Bournemouth’s 6-1 dismantling of Hull City last Saturday reinforced that the Cherries are not going to be a one-year wonder in the Premier League.
The victory was their third home triumph in a row and their biggest ever win in the Premier League.
While the season may only be eight weeks old, Bournemouth is well placed early for Premier League survival, sitting in 11th position.
The Bournemouth squad needed reinforcements at the end of last season after the club’s 16th place finish.
And the squad certainly got them, with notable signings such as Jordon Ibe, Lys Mousset, Brad Smith and Lewis Cook. The acquisition of Jack Wilshere on loan from Arsenal on deadline day may also prove to be some astute business, as the club looks to solidify its Premier League status.
It was only last month that Bournemouth suffered its heaviest defeat of the campaign, a 4-0 loss to Manchester City. Despite the result, City manager Pep Guardiola was full of praise for Eddie Howe’s team after the match, declaring Bournemouth the “best side” City had faced to that point of the season.
A week after the defeat to City, the Cherries hosted Everton and responded brilliantly with a 1-0 victory.
Bournemouth is the only side in the league this year to have picked up all three points against Everton.
But it was the manner of the victory against Hull which will have Bournemouth and its fans brimming with confidence, while Howe says he hopes the team will continue to improve.
It is easy to see why Howe is so highly rated. The young manager has attracted plenty of praise with many pundits believing he is the ideal choice to take over at Arsenal from Arsene Wenger. His name also continues to be linked to the England national team since the sacking of Sam Allardyce.
A massive test awaits this week as Bournemouth host Tottenham, who are the only undefeated side left in the league.
With matches coming up against Middlesbrough, Sunderland and Stoke City in the next month, the opportunity is there for Bournemouth to firmly establish themselves in the top half of the table, which is something not many experts thought the Cherries would achieve at the start of the season.
Fui2014
Guest
Take nothing away from Bournemouth, but Hull City's defence was absolutely abysmal. Zero pressure, zero urgency and just generally lazy, they resembled a flock of grazing sheep. Cherries deserved the win though and kept up the pressure when it mattered. With a little wind in their sails, hopefully an upset of the Hotspurs isnt off the cards. I think Howe has done a fantastic job, presents himself very well in the media too.
Sam
Guest
Howe deserves all the praise he gets. Won't be long until he is off to another club.
Pete
Guest
I think they'll fall away but will still avoid relegation. Which is a pass mark in itself.