Howe backs Ibe to show his quality

EDDIE Howe feels Jordon Ibe can go from strength to strength after the winger produced his best two performances for Bournemouth.

The Cherries’ club record signing has struggled to live up to the billing following his £15million transfer from Liverpool in the summer of 2016.

But manager Howe believes the 23-year-old is now ready to turn a corner and deliver a string of consistent displays, following improved showings against West Ham and Everton.

Ryan Fraser’s double sealed Bournemouth’s 2-1 win over Ever- ton on Saturday, and Howe’s men will next take on Brighton at the Amex Stadium on New Year’s Day.

“When you reflect back on these two games he’s been a real goal threat and has looked positive throughout,” said Howe when asked about Ibe.

“Any player has their moments in a game when things might not go their way, but he’s kept working hard.

“He’s been very, very effective, and I think these are definitely his two best back-to-back performances for the football club.”

Bournemouth ended an eightmatch Premier League winless run by sinking Everton at Dean Court, and they will now look to take that form on the road against Chris Hughton’s Brighton.

Bournemouth climbed out of the relegation zone by seeing off the Toffees, and Howe has called on his side to build on that result.

“I’m pleased to say that we won and performed well, and that’s the best combination for any manager,” said Howe.