Howe, whose struggling side stunned champions Chelsea with a 1-0 victory at Stamford Bridge last weekend, says his team can not afford to be lulled into false security by talk of United’s struggles.
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When the clubs next met in January 1984, Redknapp was in the home dug-out and masterminded that famous 2-0 FA Cup third round win. United has the league’s biggest stadium (76,000-capacity); Bournemouth’s is the smallest (11,500).
While Villa is in last place, Arsenal is two points from the top in second and looking forward to the round of 16 in the Champions League after turning around a faltering campaign.
Midfielder Surman said at the pre-match press conference: “I think a result like that changes you mindset”.
The Dutchman can point to a long injury list with a host of first-team stars now missing – Wayne Rooney, Morgan Schneiderlin, Ander Herrera all missed the defeat in Germany, while Phil Jones, Luke Shaw, Marcos Rojo and Antonio Valencia are also crocked.
For much of the 21st century Chelsea has been collecting every major trophy in European football, while Bournemouth has fought to stay in business or avoid dropping out of England’s professionals leagues.
Sylvain Distin missed the win at Chelsea but he should be back on Saturday.
United won the return 2-0 with one goal coming from Harry Redknapp, who had briefly resumed his Bournemouth playing career. Having won only three games out of 15 in the Premier League, they are fourth from bottom in the table.
– Manchester United have drawn 0-0 eight times in 2015 in all competitions, their highest tally in a calendar year since 2005 (10).
– Callum Wilson is still Bournemouth’s top goal-scorer in the Premier League this season (5 goals) even though he has not featured due to injury since 26th September.
Especially after December, which is barely the halfway point for Premier League sides.
Considering how Louis Van Gaal’s tactics revolve primarily around possession and building up the attack slowly, the midfield plays a vital role, and when it comes to midfielders, Carrick is one the most experienced and talented midfielders at the Red Devils’ camp. Now they are qualified for the (knockout stage of the) Champions League they will have to concentrate on both targets which is not easy.
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Bournemouth hit three goals in the thrilling 3-3 draw against Everton but breaking down United’s stubborn defence is an entirely different proposition.
