Bournemouth: Eddie Howe excited by Match of the Day appearances

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Eddie Howe celebrates with playersImage source, Getty Images
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Eddie Howe returned to manage Bournemouth in October 2012 after a 21-month absence

Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe says it will be surreal to see his side make weekly appearances on Match of the Day as a Premier League club next season.

The Cherries are set to take their place in English football's top flight for the first time in their history.

Only defeat, a Middlesbrough win and a 20-goal swing on the final day of the season can deny them promotion.

"To see Bournemouth on Match of the Day will be something I never imagined would be possible," said Howe.

Bournemouth's fans sang the theme music to the BBC's football highlights show on a memorable night at Goldsands Stadium on Monday, as a 3-0 home victory over Bolton effectively sealed promotion.

"I come from the era where Match of the Day was the only real football programme of my generation," added Howe. "Growing up, it was what everyone stayed up to watch."

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Image caption,

Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker tweeted his thoughts on Bournemouth's promotion on Monday

Match of the Day host Gary Lineker said the Cherries would be a great addition to the Premier League next season.

"Tell you who don't play boring football; Bournemouth," Lineker said on Twitter. "They'll be an excellent addition to the PL. Look forward to welcoming them on MOTD."

Speaking after Monday's game, Bournemouth's players could not contain their excitement at their achievement.

Callum Wilson, Bournemouth's 23-goal top scorer, told BBC Radio Solent: "I knew the club had ambitions to get to the Premier League and that's part of the reason I joined. I'm delighted to be a part of that."

On-loan Southampton goalkeeper Artur Boruc added: "It's beautiful. They worked hard all season and the dream has come true. It's tremendous.

"This club is all about hard work. There are no stars, just a bunch of lads who want to work together and achieve something really special. I'm really proud of them now and I'm really grateful to be here."

Meanwhile, the club have confirmed they will celebrate its historic promotion with an open top bus parade through Bournemouth on Bank Holiday Monday (3 May).

"This is a great and truly fitting way to recognise the club's monumental achievements and a day for supporters to come together, celebrate, enjoy the atmosphere and share in the success," chairman Jeff Mostyn told the club website., external

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