MANAGER
Eddie Howe
STAR MAN
Jermain Defoe
LAST SEASON
9th
TOP SCORER
Josh King (16)
KEY INS
Nathan Ake (Chelsea, £20m), Asmir Begovic (Chelsea, £10m), Jermain Defoe (Sunderland, free)
Jermain Defoe
KEY OUTS
None
REASONS TO BE POSITIVE
Many believed the Cherries would be easily picked off on their debut three seasons ago, but here they are on the back of a ninth-placed finish. They’ve not lost any players and have added the goals of Defoe, who will surely shine.
REASONS TO BE PESSIMISTIC
Only four clubs shipped more goals last season so defence is an issue. Talented young English manager Howe could also become a target for bigger clubs.
ONE TO WATCH
Nathan Ake enjoyed a fine loan spell last term and can once again be their defensive fulcrum and enter into World Cup conversations.
Nathan Ake
EXPECTATION
Consolidation. You won’t find many supporters dreaming of Europe but if Defoe, Josh King, Benik Afobe and Callum Wilson can fire, another top 10 finish isn’t beyond them.
REALITY
Mid-table. Cherries fans would be delighted to secure their top-flight status without the need to participate in a relegation battle.