BOURNEMOUTH VS SOUTHAMPTON: PREVIEW

Eddie Howe's Bournemouth have started this campaign in terrific style and could be in the top four by the end of the weekend, with 16 points from 8 games so far, this weekend sees the Cherries face local rivals Southampton at the Vitality Stadium.

Source: 101 Great Goals

The Saints have endured a difficult start to the season, picking up just five points and lurking dangerously above the relegation zone, a win this weekend would be vital to rejuvenate the squad and kick start their season.

TEAM NEWS

Bournemouth duo Ryan Fraser and Josh King are fitness doubts due to hamstring and ankle problems, while Charlie Daniels remains out as he recovers from a knee injury.

Southampton goalkeeper Alex McCarthy has recovered from his hamstring injury which prompted his early exit from the England camp, meaning the Saints have a full squad at their disposal.

MANAGERS COMMENTS:

Bournemouth boss Howe on the growing rivalry between the two sides:

"I definitely think the rivalry between Southampton and us has developed over the last few years," he said. "It will inevitably get bigger the more games are played.

"We respect Southampton, they're a very good club with a good set of players and manager. It will be tough."

Southampton manager Mark Hughes has admitted that his side need to take more of their chances after struggling in front of goal so far this season.

"We want more points on the board. We feel once we overcome a little bit of the anxiety we've got in our play at times, in key moments," said Hughes.

"It's not as if we're not getting shots off. If we convert more of them we'll score more goals and win more games.

"We've got a number of fixtures coming up that we feel we can maximise our chances with."

Source: Sky Sports

STATS

Bournemouth's tally of 16 points is their best start to a Premier League season after eight matches in their history. It took them 16 matches to reach that mark last season.

Southampton have won only three and lost nine of 16 league games under Mark Hughes.

Southampton have lost just two of their last 14 games against Bournemouth in all competitions (W8, D4, L2).

BETTING ODDS

Bet 365:

Bournemouth win: 21/20

Draw: 27/10

Southampton win: 11/4