Howe: A really nice dilemma

AFC Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe has said that his defensive dilemma ahead of the Bury game is a nice one to have.

In recent weeks, Howe's back four have picked themselves with injuries forcing Howe's hand.

With Cherries captain Miles Addison out for the season, Stephane Zubar suffering a knee injury which will keep him out for around nine months alongside the injuries to left back Charlie Daniels and stand-in captain Tommy Elphick, the Cherries have struggled in the midst of a defensive crisis.

Right winger Matt Ritchie has deputised at left back, whilst a failed loan move for Brighton left back Marcos Painter ended with the left back returning to the Championship side after just two 45 minute appearances during a one month loan spell.

On loan Southampton defender Dan Seaborne who has played at both left back and central defence since his move along the coast has partnered Steve Cook, but with Elphick edging closer to a return following Daniels own return last week, Howe can finally select a defence rather than just play who was fit.

Howe told the Daily Echo...

"It is a really nice dilemma for me. It has been the one area in our squad where we have been light on numbers, especially with Miles Addison out long term.

"The centre-half and full-back positions have always been a bit of a worry and being without Tommy and Charlie really stretched us. When everyone is fit, we feel we have as good a defence as any in the league.

"All the players are good characters and, whoever doesn`t start, I know they will support the team."

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