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How Bournemouth could line up for their first game back

Sports Mole looks at how Bournemouth could line up in their first Premier League game back against Crystal Palace.

Bournemouth will return to Premier League action with a clash against Crystal Palace on June 20.

The Cherries have not taken part in a competitive fixture since suffering a 2-1 defeat to Liverpool on March 7 due to the coronavirus pandemic, which halted the majority of football across the globe.

The 2019-20 campaign will resume in the coming weeks, though, and there is no question that Eddie Howe's side have work to do if they are to secure another season of Premier League football.

Indeed, a total of 27 points from their 29 matches has left them in 18th spot in the table, although they are only behind 17th-placed Watford on goal difference.

Here, Sports Mole looks at how Bournemouth could line up in their first game back.


POSS BOU XI vs. PAL

Out: Charlie Daniels (knee)
Doubtful: Steve Cook (hamstring)

> Click here for Bournemouth's latest injury and suspension news ahead of this match

Charlie Daniels is the club's only confirmed absentee ahead of the clash with Palace; the experienced defender will be on the sidelines for some time following knee surgery, but Bournemouth's squad is otherwise in good shape as they prepare to return to action on June 20.

Steve Cook was forced off against Liverpool last time out with a hamstring problem, but it seems likely that the centre-back will be fit for the clash with the Eagles.

Aaron Ramsdale tested positive for coronavirus last month, but the goalkeeper has since recovered from the virus and returned to training, while Simon Francis and Chris Mepham have both overcome the knee injuries that saw them miss out when the Cherries were last in action.

The lockdown period has also given David Brooks the chance to return to fitness; the Welshman has not made a single appearance this season due to a long-term ankle problem, but he is in line to return on June 20, which would be a huge boost as he scored seven times during his debut season in the Premier League.

Brooks could operate behind Callum Wilson against Palace, while Ryan Fraser - out of contract this summer - is also expected to be included despite the constant speculation surrounding his future.

Elsewhere, Philip Billing and Jefferson Lerma could start in the middle of the park with Lewis Cook potentially dropping to the bench.

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Written by
Matt Law
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