Kevin Ball selects the ones to watch within the AFC Bournemouth ranks ahead of the Cherries’ trip to Wearside.
The Sunderland legend talks in-depth about an experienced stopper, an in-form striker and the other game-changers within Eddie Howe’s squad.
Injuries: Dan Gosling (calf), Jack Wilshere (leg), Andrew Surman (knee), Callum Wilson (knee), Adam Federici (knee).
Arthur Boruc
Arthur Boruc has been around the block but at 37 he’s still doing the business in the Premier League. He has immense experience at this level and this season he’s kept eight clean sheets in 32 games, a solid return. He was Eddie Howe’s first permanent signing following promotion and, if reports are to be believed, he’s set to extend his deal with the Cherries into next season. A good shot stopper and calm between the sticks, Boruc is exactly the type of player who has ensured Bournemouth will remain in the Premier League for a third successive season.
Steve Cook
Bournemouth’s story is a fantastic one, but Steve Cook’s is just as good. The defender started out at Brighton & Hove Albion and during his time there he went out on loan to Mansfield Town in the National League. It was at this point that Cook considering giving up the game, and when he arrived on loan at Bournemouth a few months later he still had doubts. It’s safe to say he’s overcome them, and he’s not only been an integral part of the Cherries’ rise but a key component to their Premier League security. To go from the brink playing non-league to featuring in the top-flight every week is nothing short of amazing, and his commitment, belief and work ethic deserves immense credit.
Josh King
Josh King has, without a doubt, been Bournemouth’s key player this season. A season-ending injury a to striker Callum Wilson – his second in as many seasons – put Howe’s ranks under pressure but King has stepped up to the plate and delivered. In 2017 alone he’s found the net on 11 occasions with his overall tally for the campaign standing at 14 – level with Jermain Defoe. He’s been the difference in terms of Bournemouth looking up, not down. But, what I really like about him, is the way he plays the game, every goal he scores is different and no matter where he is in the final third he’s a threat.
Benik Afobe
Another striker in form is Benik Afobe. The Arsenal academy graduate is a great example of why dropping down the leagues isn’t always a step down, but a step in the right direction. A blistering loan spell in League One with MK Dons sent Afobe on his way and he continued his form following a permanent move to Wolves. The Premier League is a different kettle of fish and he’s managed six goals this season, but three of them have come in his last six games and they came in big ones – wins over Swansea and Boro and a draw with Liverpool. He’s a powerful presence up top and he holds the ball up well, but he’s also good with his feet, so, like King, he could have a big impact.
