AFC Bournemouth
Ahead of Brighton & Hove Albion’s visit to Vitality Stadium, interim head coach Gary O’Neil faced the press.
Here are three things we learned…
1. Enjoying the highs and lows of Forest victory
In O’Neil’s second game as interim head coach last weekend, the Cherries sealed a dramatic three points with a late winner against Nottingham Forest.
Goals from Philip Billing, Dominic Solanke and Jaidon Anthony ensured the victory after the hosts held a two-goal lead at the break.
Despite a tough opening 45 minutes in Nottingham, O’Neil explained to the local media that he found enjoyment in the full game, which you can watch all 90 minutes of here.
He explained: “It’s funny actually, I quite enjoyed all of it. The first half was what it was and looking back at it, I think we played a real good part in it.
“We let ourselves down with some decisions and in some technical aspects in the final third where we didn’t make the most of situations, but I thought 2-0 was probably harsh at half-time. I felt we had enough in us to come back into the game.
“At 1-0 my half-time team talk was going to be really positive, but the penalty makes it feel like it’s going to be a big task from there.
“We managed to stay with it and, as you know, got a good response.”
2. Managerial speculation doesn’t change Cherries’ focus
Ahead of the Seagulls’ visit to Dorset on Saturday, speculation surrounds current Brighton manager Graham Potter and a move to Chelsea’s vacant hotseat.
Regardless of who will be in the dugout for this weekend’s visitors though, the interim head coach revealed that it wouldn’t change his side’s focus.
“I think Graham’s got a fantastic coaching team with him and he’s been with that group of players for quite a few years,” he told the press.
“They’re so well coached they’ll be well-prepared for the game; I have no doubt.
“It hasn’t made any difference to my preparation or the preparation that our boys have done, we’re fully focussed.
“I expect it to be just as tough whether Graham’s on the touchline or isn’t. Their coaches will be well-prepared as will their team.”
3. Premier League Cup anticipation
The development squad’s Premier League Cup exploits will see them face Derby County at Vitality Stadium on Friday 23rd September (7pm kick-off).
For O’Neil the chance to see the next generation of Cherries players on home turf is an exciting one.
He said: “I think the impact that Mark Travers, Jordan Zemura and Jaidon Anthony have had on the first-team squad has been massive for the club.
“You always pay a real interest to how the young boys are doing when you see them in and around training, you’re always keen to see how they’re getting on.
“The cup game will be a good opportunity to do that.”
Click here to set up an online ticketing account and to purchase your ticket for the Premier League Cup fixture.
