Premier League preview and odds: AFC Bournemouth vs Manchester United

Premier League preview and odds: AFC Bournemouth vs Manchester United

August 14 , 2016 13:30pm - Vitality Stadium

Premier League

Jose Mourinho will begin his reign as boss of Manchester United with a trip to the South Coast to take on one of last season`s surprise packages, AFC Bournemouth, in Sunday`s lunchtime kick off game.

Cherries looking to build on solid maiden season in top flight

Bournemouth`s achievements last season were somewhat overshadowed by the miraculous title-winning exploits of fellow relegation candidates Leicester City. However, the understated approach seems to suit Eddie Howe and his men who continue to go about their business in a quiet and humble manner.

They have continued to stay off the radar this summer despite remaining unbeaten throughout a six-game pre-season campaign that included wins over Minnesota United, Cardiff City and Angers, and draws against Portsmouth, Reading and Valencia.

As well as improving fitness levels and incorporating new players into the fold, Bournemouth`s successful schedule of warm-up matches will have also helped to build some confidence ahead of the new campaign. Their first challenge will be to take on a Manchester United side led by Jose Mourinho and featuring the highest paid groups of players in the league.

Last season, the teams shared a win apiece, so the Cherries will not be phased by taking on the 20-time former champions at the Vitality Stadium.

United`s pre-season performances have been overshadowed by their pursuit of Juventus star and former Old Trafford employee Paul Pogba. Just four years after leaving the club for a paltry £800,000, the midfielder has returned to England in a deal thought to be worth well in excess of £100m.

With Pogba, Ibrahomovic and Mkhitaryan already recruited, Bournemouth`s relatively makeshift back line will face a tough test on Sunday. Steve Cook is likely to line up alongside Simon Francis in the centre of defence for the South Coast team, with Brad Smith and Adam Smith filling the full-back positions.

While there are question marks around their defence, offensively, Eddie Howe`s men look to be in good shape. Former Liverpool attacker Jordan Ibe could make his debut against his old foes but with a total of six new recruits avialble, second guessing the Bournemouth starting line-up could be tricky for the first few games.

Team news

The home side are still without Baily Cargill, Emerson Hyndman, Junior Stanislas and Tyrone Mings.

Meanwhile, Cameron Borthwick remains the only injury concern for Jose Mourinho.

Recent form (League)

AFC Bournemouth: WDWDD

Manchester United: WDWLW

Betting odds and tips

Attack has often been Bournemouth’s best form of defence under Eddie Howe and that trend looks et to continue this season. As a result, there could be a decent goal haul in this opener.

You can back Over 2.5 goals at 43/40 with Bet365

By Neil Morris

Go To bet365

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11/08/2016     © Frixo 2024