Eddie Howe calls in psychologist to help his players prepare for Premier League

Eddie Howe's side take on Aston Villa in their opening game

EDDIE HOWE has called in a psychologist to convince his AFC Bournemouth players that they are ready for the Premier League.

 

Most of Howe's players have never played at this level before and winger Marc Pugh, the Cherries longest-serving player having joined from Hereford in 2010, said: "We have to be in a positive frame of mind. The gaffer has installed that in us and we have psychology sessions on positive thinking and belief."

 

The Cherries face Aston Villa in their opening game at the Vitality Stadium on Saturday, and Pugh said: "It's crazy. Lots of people who have started off at this level have had it handed to them on a plate. They have been given their chance. Us nobodies have had to work our way up the ladder."

*Marc Pugh speaking at the launch of Vitality Stadium, AFC Bournemouths newly named home ground. Vitality, the health and life insurance that rewards healthy living, is the Official Wellness Partner of AFC Bournemouth.