Bournemouth’s Howe admits defeat ruined Christmas

A 3-0 defeat away at Chelsea ruined Christmas for Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe but he’s determined not to worry about teams in the bottom half catching his side.

Goals from Pedro, Eden Hazard and a Steve Cook own goal gave Chelsea a comfortable victory at Stamford Bridge on Boxing Day and moved them seven points clear at the top of the league.

The defeat left Bournemouth in 13th place but just three points off Southampton in eighth leaving Howe optimistic that a couple of good results can see his side really move up the table.

“The Chelsea game ruined my Christmas,” he said.

“As always, what’s going on with our results dictates my mood and how you enjoy your social time. It obviously didn’t ruin it for the kids, but personally, it was a difficult Christmas period.

(Photo credit should read BEN STANSALL/AFP/Getty Images)

“The nature of the division is that you’re always looking over your shoulder. We also want to look up the league table, because a couple of back-to-back wins can elevate you into a really good position.

“Given our current position, we’re looking both up and down the table right now. We know this is an important game and a key period for us.

“We’ve been a bit inconsistent of late and that is something we’ve talked about internally. With the new year, that is something we’re keen to address.”