Cherries likely to opt for experimentation in Villa match

Eddie Howe was quite precise in saying that he would like to see some other guys play against Aston Villa in the FA Cup from the regular starting eleven. That does indicate to me that he will make more than just one or two changes now having seen what happened at Leeds. I have a feeling it could be up to eight or nine.

Giving Aston Villa a problem though is less of a priority than getting everything right for the next league match against Watford. There were signs though that some players really need a chance to recharge the batteries and perhaps Matt Ritchie, Andrew Surman and Harry Arter will be among those who are given some time off, while Eddie brings in the energy of Ryan Fraser, Dan Gosling and Eunan O'Kane. 

Young Ryan is due a start.

Eunan could be one of the players that Eddie wants to cast an eye over at Villa.

I think the latter three in particular deserve more of an opportunity than they have had, and if they can get any kind of result against Aston Villa it will be a great achievement for a Bournemouth side. In away there should be no pressure on the Cherries as they go to Villa Park. if they do the basics well they could do better than they even might imagine. It will be good to see whatever side Eddie Howe puts out and how they go against quality opposition.

Those on the pitch can be assured of a good following of fans and as long as they give everything as Eddie Howe's sides always do it should be a good game to attend. What I do hope though is that the players can switch off from the last game against Leeds and meet the Villa game as a fresh challenge. Do that and get a win and things will seem totally different come next week in the build up for a crunch game against Watford.

Transfer Watch
It has been reported that AFCB have had a third failed bid made for Demarai Gray at Birmingham City. This bid was set at £3m plus add-ons, rising to £3.5m, according to reports in the media.