Sutton's predictions: Bournemouth v Tottenhampublished at 11:42 5 December 2024
11:42 5 December 2024
Chris Sutton is making predictions for all 380 Premier League games this season, against a variety of guests.
For week 14, he takes on James Ryan, bassist with rock band The Slow Readers Club.
Sutton's prediction: 2-2
Good luck to anyone trying to predict this one. The only thing I am sure about is that there will be a lot of goals.
Wolves went toe to toe with Bournemouth on Saturday and the Cherries created chance after chance.
Tottenham will go toe to toe with the Cherries too, and there are going to be a lot of opportunities at both ends.
I don't want to go for another draw this week, and I think Bournemouth are more likely to edge it... but rather than trying to pick a winner I am going to say they will share the points.
Ryan's prediction: 2-1
Spurs remind me of what Manchester City used to be like, back in the day. They can smash someone 4-0, then get hammered themselves the next game. I am going with Bournemouth to beat them here.
'Cook is constantly overlooked by England'published at 11:41 5 December 2024
11:41 5 December 2024
Image source, Getty Images
We asked you to tell us one thing - good or bad - that nobody is talking about at Bournemouth.
Here are some of your comments:
Pie: Why is no one talking about Lewis Cook adding to his one England cap? Does he have to leave the club like Dominic Solanke did before finally getting a recall to the England squad after he left Bournemouth? I think he had played a few minutes for Tottenham by that point.
Mark: No one seems to be talking about the strength in depth we have. Iraola is clear that he doesn't always start his strongest team and looks for an impact from his substitutes, and over the season we have seen this - most notably at Everton away where Ouattara and Sinisterra were instrumental to the dramatic comeback win!
Chris: Despite having two young right-backs in Aarons and Araujo, 33-year-old Adam Smith continues to compete at Premier League level and hold down his first-team place. He's a machine.
Rob: Tyler Adams is certainly under the radar. We have waited a long time to see him play. Lewis Cook is constantly overlooked by England. David Brooks is starting to show the Premier League his enormous talent, but is still under the radar. The last player is Alex Scott who, when fit, will certainly be a threat!
Robbie: The new state-of-the-art training ground is due to open in early 2025. This will serve to help with recruitment, enhance the academy and likely improve performances of the first team.
Familiar face returns to the Vitalitypublished at 08:27 5 December 2024
08:27 5 December 2024
Mark Mitchener BBC Sport senior journalist
Image source, Getty Images
When Tottenham visit Bournemouth on Thursday, it will be difficult to escape an "old versus new" narrative if Dominic Solanke lines up against his old club.
The striker is likely to receive a warm reception at Vitality Stadium, having spent five and a half years in Cherries colours while spearheading their promotion from the Championship in 2021-22.
It still irks supporters that a 20-goal season at Bournemouth was not enough to propel Solanke into the England squad for Euro 2024, but a modest first month at Spurs immediately earned him an international recall.
But the £65m move represented good business for the Cherries and probably came at the right time of his career.
Meanwhile, his Bournemouth replacement Evanilson appears to be winning over the doubters after his £40m switch from Porto.
While Justin Kluivert's hat-trick of penalties in the 4-2 win at Wolves made headlines, Evanilson also made history as the first man to be brought down for three spot-kicks in one Premier League game.
Whether or not one believes that winning a penalty should earn points for a fantasy league "assist", the fact remains that Evanilson has done so five times already this season - in an era when VAR checks such awards to the smallest degree.
It was not too long ago that Bournemouth went 609 days without being awarded a penalty (including the entire 2022-23 season and Gary O'Neil's complete tenure as head coach), so Evanilson's ability to draw clumsy challenges - as he did from the Wolves defenders and goalkeeper at Molineux - does seem to suit boss Andoni Iraola's high-energy, high-pressing style.
With Spurs adopting a not dissimilar high-risk, high-reward style under Ange Postecoglou, Thursday could be a cracker.
Gossip: Newcastle eye Semenyopublished at 07:44 5 December 2024
How did Bournemouth choose Evanilson?published at 16:34 4 December 2024
16:34 4 December 2024
Image source, Getty Images
Unsurprisingly, Dominic Solanke was one of the topics of Andoni Iraola's latest news conference before Bournemouth host Tottenham on Thursday.
The England international spent five years on the south coast before joining the Lilywhites in the summer, and Iraola was asked about the process of replacing him.
"We wished in that moment that it didn't happen, but all summer the club was working in case someone came with the money [for Solanke] and the transfer happened," Iraola said.
"We are in a moment now when the club knows what we need in every position and what we are going to demand from a player in that position. You are never going to find the exact player. One player has this [trait], but probably lacks this.
"They [the club] have probably analysed much better than me. The club analyses the players and the market. One day a player is available and next week he's not. The market is very difficult - I don't like it. I don't want to get too involved. I try to help and analyse from the options.
"Some players you see and you don't like from first sight - you see something that is difficult to teach.
"It's always difficult to replace someone who has performed so much, but I think the club had a plan. I'm happy because I think Evanilson is playing very well and is helping the team to play well. I hope he can continue on the line he has been playing in the last games."
Iraola on Cook, 'amazing' Tottenham and Solanke's returnpublished at 13:32 4 December 2024
13:32 4 December 2024
Josh Lobley BBC Sport Journalist
Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola has been speaking to the media before Thursday's Premier League game against Tottenham (kick-off 20:15 GMT).
Here are the key lines from his news conference:
Iraola confirmed there are no new injury concerns ahead of Thursday's match: "I think it's going to be very similar to the squad we had [against Wolves]. We have recovered Antoine [Semenyo] from suspension. I hope they can all play."
He added that Lewis Cook is going to train before the match, but does not want to "rush" his inclusion into the side.
Iraola rejected suggestions Tottenham are a similar team to Arsenal and Manchester City, who Bournemouth have beaten this season: "Stats-wise they are amazing. They are top scorers [in the Premier League] and just three teams [have] conceded less. They have so many offensive threats and are good in the press and possession. I enjoy watching them."
On former Cherry Dominic Solanke, who could return to the Vitality Stadium: "I prefer that he doesn't play against us! But we have prepared the game thinking that he will play. He's very important for them - he is giving them a lot in and out of possession. We know him well but he knows everything we do."
Iraola says he is happy with how the club replaced the England striker: "It's always difficult to replace someone who has performed so well, but I think the club had a plan. I'm very happy because Evanilson is playing very well and he is helping the team to play well."
What's the one thing no-one is talking about?published at 12:07 4 December 2024
12:07 4 December 2024
Bournemouth games have been an entertaining watch since returning from the international break. Two matches, one win, one loss, five goals scored and four goals conceded leaves them 13th in the Premier League.
Andoni Iraola's men are within touching distance of European football. If all results go in their favour, the Cherries could be as high as seventh if they were to beat Tottenham by at least a two-goal margin in Thursday's match at Vitality Stadium.
But we want you to tell us the one thing - good or bad - that nobody is talking about regarding Bournemouth at the moment?
How 'real bargain' Kluivert has already paid off his transfer feepublished at 12:26 3 December 2024
12:26 3 December 2024
Sam Davis Fan writer
Image source, Getty Images
In today’s market you would find it a challenge to recruit a player who regularly delivers offensive numbers for less than £10m, but it looks as if Bournemouth have.
At just £9m, Justin Kluivert is a vital part of Andoni Iraola's Cherries, delivering exactly what the coach wants from his number 10 position and backing it up with impressive numbers.
History was made at the weekend when he became the first player to score a hat-trick of penalties in a Premier League fixture, a treble that he took with ease from the spot. The calm and composed nature of Kluivert's penalties epitomised the Dutchman - a real fans favourite whose dedication to his specific role under Andoni Iraola often goes under the radar.
The fact all three goals were from the spot also took many Cherries fans back to what now seems a sliding doors moment. With our previous penalty taker Dom Solanke no longer at the club, we had no idea who would step up when we won our first of the season at home to Chelsea. Solanke's replacement Evanilson took the responsibility, but unfortunately saw his penalty saved, meaning we would have to think again when the next spot kick was awarded in our favour. That moment came against Arsenal, where Kluivert stepped up and coolly slotted home. Since then, we have never looked back.
In general there are many things to love about how Kluivert goes about his business. Currently walking that suspension tight rope on four yellows is evidence to the nature of his aggressive pressing, something that Iraola instils in his players.
There is definitely more to come, but at £9m, he already feels like a real bargain.
Johnny: Absolutely disgraceful. Jose Sa should not be paid for that performance. Everyone is blaming Gary O'Neil but, let's face it, the players out there constantly gave the ball away. Wolves will be relegated come the end of the season - and deservedly so. Matheus Cunha, Rayan Ait-Nouri and Jorgen Strand Larsen will be gone in January. The club is on a downward spiral.
Tony: Looks like the Championship beckons with such schoolboy errors. I don't think a change of manager will make the slightest difference, if Wolves continue displaying such errors. I assume Sa wants away from Wolves with that display.
Philip: Dreadful performance. Our defence this season is a disaster and Gary O'Neil has to take full responsibility for not sorting this out. We were giving the ball away far too often, as per usual, and a useless final 20 minutes of capitulation and defeatism. It is a mess, with no discernible pattern of play. We need a more experienced coach at this level, and fast.
Nathan: Clumsy at the back again and Sa had a shocker! Three penalties is unacceptable. We are OK going forward but we must fix the problems at the back!
Bournemouth fans
Greg: So pleased to finally be performing against a side we should be beating. Bournemouth always seem to struggle against sides lower in the table. Evanilson is starting to show some real class in the press and he is giving defenders problems. A big team performance, playing Iraola-ball with high energy.
Charl: Bournemouth were impressive throughout the whole team, especially the midfield. Ryan Christie was outstanding, David Brooks was very near to his previous best and Tyler Adams is immense. Special praise must go to Evanilson - he never gave up and he battled for every ball, causing Wolves so many problems. Magic.
James: Evanilson may not be scoring prolifically, but his work rate is superb and it was Wolves' inability to handle him that earned them the penalties which were calmly despatched by father-to-be Justin Kluivert. His historic hat-trick of penalties will be what is remembered from this match, but sadly Christie's masterclass in midfield will largely be overlooked.
Murphy praises Cherries' 'high risk but high reward' stylepublished at 07:46 2 December 2024
07:46 2 December 2024
Image source, Getty Images
Former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy has praised Bournemouth's "intensity" and "bravery" during their 4-2 win over Wolves at Molineux.
Speaking on Match of the Day, Murphy said: "They were absolutely incredible. It was their bravery to be intense in the press, high up the pitch. But, not just that, it was also the quality they had when they won the ball back.
"Five men against five men, away from home in the Premier League, is brave. High risk but high reward, and they did it so well. They played with freedom, their work ethic is great, it is all in unison, there is good communication and they obviously work hard at it.
"You have got overlaps, you have got skills, you have got vision. At times, there were six of them in the box and that is the type of commitment I'm talking about. They are committed to pushing players forward.
"They are always keen to win the battles in midfield. It is like: 'If you don't get it, where is your team-mate who is going to get it?' Then, when they win it, they can just go.
"They actually missed some really good chances. They were cutting through Wolves so comfortably.
"They have been given the freedom by their manager [Andoni Iraola] and what he is doing on the training ground is paying dividends for them."
Gossip: Semenyo and Kerkez targets for Premier League giantspublished at 07:18 2 December 2024
07:18 2 December 2024
Bournemouth are willing to consider offers for Antoine Semenyo in the summer, with Liverpool among the clubs interested in the forward. (Football Insider), external
When is the FA Cup third-round draw?published at 12:16 1 December 2024
12:16 1 December 2024
Image source, Getty Images
It is one of the most eagerly anticipated dates in the football calendar as Premier League and Championship clubs join the FA Cup action from round three.
The draw will take place on Monday, 2 December from 19:00 GMT and can be watched live on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer.
Catch up on the Premier League actionpublished at 10:08 1 December 2024
10:08 1 December 2024
Gary Lineker introduces highlights and analysis from Saturday's five Premier League fixtures, plus the best of the action from Friday's game between Brighton and Southampton.
Wolves 2-4 Bournemouth: Kluivert sets record and Evanilson earns praisepublished at 19:37 30 November 2024
19:37 30 November 2024
Michael Emons BBC Sport journalist at Molineux
Image source, Reuters
Image caption,
Bournemouth were 3-1 ahead after only 18 minutes at Molineux
Justin Kluivert became the first player to score a hat-trick of penalties in an English top-flight match since the 1950s as Bournemouth returned to winning ways with a 4-2 victory at struggling Wolves.
However, Andoni Iraola, speaking to the media after the match, was quick to praise forward Evanilson, who won all three of the penalties, which Kluivert converted.
Although not on the scoresheet, Iraola was delighted with the Brazilian's efforts and added: "Evanilson has made the difference. He has been fighting with the centre-backs and the keeper. He was phenomenal.
"Evanilson didn't score today, but he is why we won. He has won five penalties this season and we have scored four.
"It is very difficult to score three penalties in one game. Justin is someone who gives us a lot, also without the ball. He is someone who understands we need his work-rate. He is giving the team a lot."
Bournemouth had lost their past two matches, but this was a fine return to form as the Cherries moved up to 11th in the Premier League table.
Wolves 2-4 Bournemouth: Key statspublished at 18:39 30 November 2024
18:39 30 November 2024
Image source, Getty Images
Justin Kluivert became the first player in Premier League history to score a hat-trick of penalties in a single match, with team-mate Evanilson also becoming the first player to win three penalties in a single match in the competition.
Meanwhile, Kluivert scored the first two of his three penalties for the Cherries in the opening 18 minutes. It is the earliest a team has ever scored twice from the spot from the start of a Premier League match.
'Evanilson has made the difference today'published at 17:41 30 November 2024
17:41 30 November 2024
Image source, Getty Images
Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has been speaking to BBC Match of the Day after the away victory: "Very pleased with the performance and the win. We have played well without getting points in the last two games. We needed the win and the performance.
"In the first-half, we were very dangerous and the press was working well. We deserved this. We are trying to put pressure on them, don't let them feel comfortable.
"Evanilson has made the difference today. He has been fighting with the centre-backs and the goalkeeper. He was phenomenal.
"Justin [Kluivert] has played against my teams in Spain many times, and has also scored penalties. Justin is normally quite confident in those situations.
"The first two were clear. For the third one, I thought maybe he is not the one to take it. But also, in the moment, I didn't want to be the one to tell him.
"Every time you take another penalty, it becomes more difficult because you are giving the goalkeeper more information.
"But I would also like to acknowledge Evanilson. He didn't score today but he is [the reason] why we won."