Pugh the model pro claims Cherries boss Howe

Marc Pugh’s match-winning strike as Bournemouth beat Premier League Champions Leicester City could not have fallen to a more deserving character, according to Cherries boss Eddie Howe.

The 29-year-old midfielder’s effort sealed the 1-0 victory that propelled Bournemouth to the highest league position in the club’s history.

Their grip on eighth spot may not last long, with eight fixtures set to be played on Wednesday night, but Howe did not let that stop his enjoyment of the result, and in particular his praise of Pugh.

“Marc was magnificent, it was a performance that shows everything I look for in a Bournemouth player,” said the former Cherries player.

“He was out of the squad, not just out the team, and he’s had to wait and bide his time. He’s been a model professional, he’s played development games across the country and conducted himself so well.

“He deserves this more than anyone.

“We’ve been in the Premier League a while, but it’s a nice thing to say [that they are eighth].

“The team this season is growing, getting better and there’s a lot more to come. Other people may sit back and look at the table but I’m looking to achieve more, starting with Southampton next weekend.”

Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images

The win was Bournemouth’s sixth of the season, five of which have come at home, and Howe was pleased to with how his side bounced back from Saturday’s 3-2 defeat at Burnley.

“It was very much a good response from Saturday’s result,” he added.

“I think the most pleasing thing is this season, we have the ability to respond to setbacks very well, and that’s a really good sign for the future.”