With most of their stars rested and recovered, Liverpool face a difficult test in their quest for the Premier League title as they visit Bournemouth on Saturday in domestic play.
An away clash at Bournemouth might not have been underlined as a major obstacle in Liverpool's pursuit of the Premier League title but Saturday's clash on the south coast suddenly looks anything but a relaxed trip to the seaside.
Bournemouth's current squad is a tribute to the recruitment team, including former sporting director Richard Hughes, who is now at Liverpool, and his long-time assistant Simon Francis, who has carried on the good work after taking over.
Andoni Iraola has been tipped to strike when the opportunity to leave Bournemouth for a top side arrives imminently.
Tottenham would love to speak to Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola should they look to replace Ange Postecoglou.
Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola claims that his side will change nothing following their 5-0 win over Nottingham Forest.
They can complete a very special quadruple by toppling leaders Liverpool on the south coast on Saturday afternoon, and belief will be sky-high after their 5-0 thrashing of Nottingham Forest. Can they do it? Let's take a closer look at their credentials…
Injury UpdateAs Liverpool continue their chase for the Premier League crown, their resilience will be tested this Saturday at the Vitality Stadium, where they face AFC
Nottingham Forest have grabbed most of the limelight as the Premier League's big over-achievers this season but Bournemouth's rise to top-four contenders is equally remarkable.
There wasn't much positive team news from Iraola, who still has eight players ruled out through injury: "Marcus Tavernier is the only player who has started training with the group but I don't know if we are going to have him tomorrow. We will have to decide."
Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola will be expected to keep faith in the same starting XI for Saturday's Premier League battle with Liverpool at the Vitality Stadium.
High-flying Bournemouth and their manager Andoni Iraola are discussed on the latest episode of The Athletic FC Podcast