AFC Bournemouth
Manager Eddie Howe insisted he would make changes to his AFC Bournemouth starting line-up for tomorrow’s Emirates FA Cup tie against Brighton.
Howe, speaking at this morning’s pre-match press conference, said he had a number of players carrying knocks and would look to shuffle his pack for the third-round clash at Vitality Stadium (12.30pm).
The showdown, however, will come too soon for Adam Smith who is on the road to recovery following a knee injury.
Howe said Smith was “doing well” with his rehab but was “still not 100 per cent right”.
Emerson Hyndman and Matt Worthington – back from respective loan spells with Hibernian and Forest Green Rovers – could be in contention to feature against the Seagulls.
Howe, who reported other players had strains and fatigue following a hectic spell over the festive period, told the media: “There will be changes.
“We are looking forward to the game. The third round of the FA Cup is an historic date in the football calendar. It is great to be at home, especially after the entraining game against Watford on Wednesday.”
The Cherries last met the Seagulls in the FA Cup in November 1993 when goals from Brian McGorry, Adrian Pennock, Neil Masters and Paul Wood earned them a 4-2 triumph in the first round at Dean Court.
Brighton progressed when the teams met at the Goldstone Ground in the third round in 1987/88, the hosts running out 2-0 victors.
The fourth round takes place across the weekend of 26 January.
