AFC Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has said that his side are ‘ready for the challenge’ of in-form Newcastle United, as the Cherries travel to St James’ Park tomorrow lunchtime in the Premier League.
The Magpies are looking to win ten games in a row for the first time in their history, but the Cherries are on a run of their own, currently ten games unbeaten in all competitions.
Despite the strength of the opposition, Iraola still believes his side have what it takes, he said: “I think we are in a good spot, even if we are short of numbers.
“It’s going to be very difficult, right now they (Newcastle) are flying.
“They have players in great form, especially Isak and Gordon, and their midfield is super strong.
“I think we are ready for the challenge.”
St James’ Park is well known for its ferocious atmosphere, and the Bournemouth manager is well aware that his side will need to be on it from minute one.
Iraola said: “At home, with the atmosphere they create in the stadium, they usually start very strong.
“They are used to scoring early, especially in home games.
“I think it is important that we can survive those first ten minutes, where they really create the atmosphere to overrun and intimidate you.”
On Saturday, ex-Cherries manager Eddie Howe will be in the opposite dugout, and Iraola was quick to praise the Bournemouth legend.
He said: “I think he’s a top coach, he’s doing a great job there”
“For me it is a challenge as a manager to face the good ones, and Eddie is definitely one of them.”
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