Will Eddie look at the centre back situation?

Sylvain and Tommy - are they any nearer getting a start?

The two centre half positions have been pretty consistent since the New Year, but having shipped five goals in the last two games there just might be some thought given to whether Simon Francis and Steve Cook are still the best candidates to keep the shirts for the next match or two. There should be some pressure on their places having seen how well Sylvain Distin played in the cup games and with Tommy Elphick keen to get back into the side , he'll be hoping there could just be an opening for him now.

We know Eddie is very loyal to those in the side. Playing against Spurs is not the same as Newcastle Utd and we have seen the difference all too clearly. But the next few games are against top sides and having seen the team fall a bit flat, it may just need a bit of pecking up by changing a starting place or two. This last week has probably been Tommy Elphick's week to try and impress and to put some doubt in Howe's mind as to who he should start.

The side as a whole will need to step up their game. It is from a solid base that the Cherries will earn further points so the selection of the next couple of teams are going to be key for Eddie to get right. It is no good changing just for the sake of it. He needs a positive effect and it will be important to know who is still feeling strong as we head towards the end of the season.

As for Sylvain Distin, I hope he does get another go before the games run out. If this is his last season in the Premier League then he won't want to see it out sitting on the bench. Perhaps if the Cherries get themselves into the 40 point area the manager might look to give one or two a game who have missed out a bit. But the importance of finances probably mean that we will see pretty much the same side play out the remaining games as long as the players remain injury free.

You can read about the questions put to me by the Guardian/Observer last weekend on the Premier League run in. Just visit- Premier League fans' verdict.

The Cherry Chimes Newsletter will be out tomorrow.

Cherry Chimes' April Newsletter brings you the best stories on the blog and the thoughts behind them from last month, plus there is a special Newsletter article entitled: Defence and midfield must lead Howe's thoughts this summer

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