Who ' s in and who ' s out?
Season expectations?
What ' s their reality?
Fixtures to look out for
Key Man: Harry Arter
Young Star: Jordan Ibe Marmite Man: Artur Boruc In 3 Words: Chirpy, brave, incognito Odds( Bet356): Title: 1000 / 1 Relegation: 3 / 1 Prediction: 13th
Bournemouth
Last Season Premier League: 16th FA Cup: Fifth Round League Cup: Fourth Round Top Scorer( all): Joshua King( 7)
Hands up if you envisaged Bournemouth, embarking on their first ever top flight season, would avoid relegation with ease. Thought so. Eddie Howe further enhanced his gleaming reputation as his slick and modern Cherries side secured their safety in early April, racking up memorable wins over Chelsea and Manchester United in the process. With Howe firmly in the dugout after speculation linking him with the England job fell short, he now faces the dreaded second season syndrome conundrum. With added investment and the pressure of ironically having no pressure, Bournemouth face a different type of prospect in 2016 / 17. A repeat of last seasons heroics would be welcomed with opens arms, but many teams have found out it ' s not that simple. Over to you Eddie.
Who ' s in and who ' s out?
Two young Englishmen have joined the ranks. 20 year-old Jordan Ibe for an eye watering £ 15m from Liverpool, along with 19-year-old Lewis Cook from Leeds for £ 7m. Ibe, who showed glimpses of his sparkling ability on Merseyside, could prove a big hit if he nails down a first team spot. He is a replacement for Matt Ritchie, who opted to move north to Newcastle, while club captain Tommy Elphick and Lee Tomlin have also moved on.
Season expectations?
Surviving is the main and obvious priority. With Ibe on board, and more expected to follow, a top ten finish could be in reach.
What ' s their reality?
Their first ten games are key. Find themselves lingering near the base and it could be a long season. Last season proved they can mix it with anyone, but now it ' s about consolidation and cementing themselves as a Premier League club for the long term. A scrap for safety is unlikely thanks to Eddie Howe being at the helm.
Fixtures to look out for
First away game. They have the privilege of being first side to visit the Olympic Park on 21st August against West Ham. April looks crucial. A south coast derby with Southampton, followed by Liverpool, Chelsea and Tottenham. Then potential basement battles against
Middlesbrough and Sunderland round off a critical period.
Key Man: Harry Arter
Young Star: Jordan Ibe Marmite Man: Artur Boruc In 3 Words: Chirpy, brave, incognito Odds( Bet356): Title: 1000 / 1 Relegation: 3 / 1 Prediction: 13th