AFC Bournemouth
Cherries head coach Gary O’Neil fielded questions from the press ahead of Tuesday night’s Premier League clash with Brighton & Hove Albion.
Here are three things we learned…
1. Expecting a tough test
With the Seagulls in town on Tuesday night sitting sixth in the Premier League, O’Neil discussed the challenge in front of the Cherries with the press.
He said: “We’re in a decent spot and the lads are enjoying it but there’s a big test coming in just over 24 hours.
“Brighton are a fantastic team so it’s a real test, especially with the quick turnaround.
“There’s not too much time, only a day really, to prep the lads for what is a complicated task against what is a very good side.”
2. Belief in the squad high
Having recorded back-to-back home victories against Liverpool and Fulham, the head coach also discussed the current mood amongst the players.
“The belief was shown from 30 minutes onwards in the Fulham game; that belief has always been there,” O’Neil explained.
“Of course, some positive results and the lads being rewarded for some of their good work has helped.
“We’re now looking forward to two more very big games this week.”
3. Being realistic with Tavs’ return from injury
Saturday’s win was marked by the return to match action for Marcus Tavernier, who played a key role in delivering the three points.
The former midfielder faced questions on further involvement for Tavernier with a quick turnaround for Brighton’s visit.
O’Neil answered: “We need to be realistic with where he is at the moment, but you saw the impact that he can have.
“It’s important that we try and keep him fit, we work with him and we keep improving him.
“As always, I’ll be advised and follow that advice from the experts as best I can on how much [he can play] and when.
“We’ll try and make sure this time that now he’s back, he’ll stay back, because last time we had him back for one sub appearance, he started the next game and then we lost him.
“It’s important that if we can, as we do with all of them, we manage the load and pick up on things before they become too serious and keep the squad in a place where everyone’s available.”
