Stadium move will be emotional but crucial to Bournemouth, says Eddie Howe

12 December 2016 12:23

Eddie Howe believes Bournemouth must press ahead with plans for an "emotional" move from Dean Court to realise their Premier League potential.

Bournemouth bosses last week revealed their bid to develop a new stadium for the Cherries, and manager Howe has thrown his support behind the plan.

Howe has graced Dean Court as both player and manager, sharing as many heartfelt moments at the ground as many supporters - but believes the club must trade up on the stadium front to boost finances.

"The stadium is a key factor moving forward," said Howe.

"If and when we move it will be an emotional time, but we have to see the bigger picture."

Bournemouth have played at Dean Court since 1910 but now hope to have a new home in time for the 2020-21 season.

The Cherries sold the 11,450-capacity Dean Court ground to property company Structadene in 2005 in a sale and lease-back deal.

Bournemouth host Leicester on Tuesday night, fresh from Saturday's 3-2 Premier League reverse at Burnley and Howe admitted his side must tidy up the uncharacteristic defensive lapses that proved so costly at Turf Moor.

Claudio Ranieri's Leicester have struggled in the early stages of their Premier League title defence, but bounced back spectacularly by thrashing Manchester City 4-2 at the weekend.

Jamie Vardy's hat-trick bamboozled Pep Gaurdiola's men, leaving Howe extremely wary of the east midlands team.

"I wasn't disappointed with the effort at Burnley but we do need to ensure we're a little more solid at the back," said Howe.

"Conceding goals hasn't been a big issue but we've obviously let a few in during recent games. We're always looking at ourselves.

"Leicester looked to have regained their swagger on Saturday."

Source: PA