Eddie Howe says Bournemouth are still not an established Premier League side
Cherries boss also believes his side's injuries could be a "blessing in disguise"
Friday 3 May 2019 10:37, UK
Bournemouth are still not an 'established' Premier League side and constantly have to prove their worth, according to boss Eddie Howe.
The Cherries host Tottenham in the penultimate game of the season on Saturday, live on Sky Sports, already assured of a fifth top-flight campaign.
However Howe believes there is still plenty of work for his side to do in a constantly demanding and changing league.
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"People have used the word 'established' - we have never used that word," Howe said.
"For us, it's not useful and there's the risk you become complacent and lazy.
"It's about proving we deserve to be here every season and it's constantly a challenge.
"Every season has brought us different hurdles to overcome.
"As a club we are constantly looking to consolidate ourselves in the division - from the infrastructure side to support staff, to our coaching, to the players.
"That ambition and drive to keep moving things forward will have to gather pace again because the league is only going to get harder next year."
Bournemouth go into Saturday's game with injury concerns over Dan Gosling (calf), Adam Smith (knee) and Dominic Solanke (hamstring) adding to an already over-stretched squad.
Despite the number of injuries, Howe believes the situation will only make his side stronger moving forward next season.
"I think the injuries have been a blessing in disguise in the respect that it has given opportunities to younger players," added Howe.
"We've seen a huge transition of players within our team from the beginning of the season to now.
"We have to view this positively because if we can overcome these issues, it will mean we will come back a lot stronger next season."
