Mings feeling fitter and stronger ahead of Bournemouth return

Defender Tyrone Mings admits he is champing at the bit to make his Premier League return with Bournemouth after serving a five-match suspension.

The 24-year-old, who has impressed in what is in effect his debut season in the top flight after returning from a lengthy injury layoff, was forced onto the sidelines once more after the FA cited him for a stamp on Manchester United forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic last month.

Mings is in contention to return to the Cherries’ matchday squad for this weekend’s clash against Tottenham Hotspur, although he may find it tough to get straight back into the side with the back four of Adam Smith, Simon Francis, Steve Cook and Charlie Daniels impressing without him.

Bournemouth have two wins and two draws from their last five matches, with the only loss coming against league leaders Chelsea, but Mings has been using his time away from the pitch to pick the brain of manager Eddie Howe – a defender himself during his playing days.

“[His] ideas and his experience definitely rub off on me,” said Mings. “We have had a lot of conversations about the similarities between us.

“He is a great manager and a great coach to learn from. He is knowledgeable about every position but his experience as a defender certainly helps me.

“I feel like I am getting fitter and stronger. I work a lot with the manager on reviewing games.

“For me, it was pleasing to put in some of my better performances at centre-back, although, ultimately, we are judged on results and they are the most important thing.”