Howe Explains Keeper Axe

Eddie Howe has explained his decision to drop Asmir Begovic and hand Artur Boruc a start in Bournemouth’s win over West Ham.

Begovic had been ever-present in the top-flight for the Cherries since a £10million move from Chelsea in the summer of 2017, so his absence on Saturday came as something of a surprise.

However after conceding 14 league goals during a four-game winless run, he lost his starting spot to Boruc for the much-needed 2-0 success against the Hammers.

“You tweak other positions in the team without really thinking about it at great length but the goalkeeper one is always analysed greatly, and I understand why,” said Howe.

“He (Begovic) was fine and he understood (the decision) and he very much supported Artur in his performance. He’s the ultimate professional, Asmir.”

Former Poland keeper Boruc enjoyed a comfortable afternoon against Manuel Pellegrini’s Hammers and had only one shot – a 79th-minute attempt from substitute Javier Hernandez – to deal with as goals from Callum Wilson and Joshua King earned the hosts’ victory.

Howe felt the former Celtic and Southampton keeper merited his opportunity after being restricted to 11 cup outings in the last two seasons.

“His form’s been very, very good,” said Howe. “He’s trained excellently. I think in our game against Chelsea recently in the Carabao Cup he was outstanding, made a number of good saves. I just thought he deserved to play.”