Jermain Defoe and Nathan Ake form the foundation of another Bournemouth mid-table assault

Jermain Defoe

LAST SEASON

9th

TOP SCORER

Josh King (16)

KEY INS

Nathan Ake (Chelsea, £20m), Asmir Begovic (Chelsea, £10m), Jermain Defoe (Sunderland, free)

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.

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.