Howe expecting ‘tough’ test against Magpies

EDDIE Howe has called for fighting spirit from his AFC Bournemouth players ahead of the trip to St James’ Park today.

The Cherries may be sitting in the Premier League’s top six but go into this clash on the back of a wobble against Manchester United.

Howe’s side travelled to Tyneside last season threatened by the prospect of relegation with those fears eased by Steve Cook’s injury time winner at the Leazes End.

Looking ahead to the game Howe said: “The mentality going to Newcastle this year has to be the same as last. The circumstances of the game are different, but the mentality has to be the same.

“It’s difficult to win in the Premier League. Every game is so different, Newcastle will be on a high going into this one, so it’ll be tough.”

Newcastle blew the chance to get some revenge against Bournemouth last year after throwing a 2-0 lead in the last nine minutes on the south coast to take just a point.

However, the Magpies ended the season by finishing two places above Howe’s men in the final table, albeit on goal differences.

Howe said: “I think both results against Newcastle last year, in different ways, helped us and we learned a lot from them.”