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Eddie Howe: There are similarities between us and Arsenal and it will be a good contest

Written by afcb.co.uk

Howe revealed that he feels there are some similarities between the Gunners and Cherries in the way that they play ahead of Sunday's clash between the two sides at the Emirates Stadium.


On top of this, the manager was quick to dismiss any speculation linking himself with the Arsenal job.


"From a football perspective, I've been a big fan for a number of years of how they play," he explained.


"They are loyal to their philosophy and the way they play, they have strong beliefs and win, lose or draw, they'll continue to do the same things.


"Naturally as a player I would watch the top teams and aspire to be those top players, Arsenal were a side I watched a lot to find ways to improve my own game. 


"Since becoming a manager I do the same thing, watch the top teams thinking how I can get my team closer to that. Arsenal have had a big influence in my football ideas.


"There are slight similarities between how we play but I wouldn't say we're identical, there are differences in players and ideas.


"Being linked with jobs must mean that people are liking what we do, how we play and getting results. But moving is not a consideration or thought of mine at all."


Howe has a few selection dilemmas ahead of the game, with Jack Wilshere ineligible for the game as well as Adam Smith's return from suspension.


The manager is pleased to have the choices to make however, as it proves the strength in depth of his squad.


"Jack will be a big miss for us, he's got better and better each week," he continued.


"At Stoke he was excellent, he made lots of key passes for us and was the link between midfield and attack. His defensive displays have been superb, the clever positions to protect the midfield are unnoticed and he'll be a big miss in both disciplines.


"Adam Smith returns too so it's nice to have that decision and be able to give someone an opportunity. The selection issues are a chance to give someone the opportunity and hope they take it, it proves the reinforced strength of the squad and it's nice to be in that position."