Having made significant additions in the previous transfer windows, Eddie Howe would have hoped that Bournemouth were ideally placed to challenge for the European places in the Premier League this season.
However, despite a promising start, the Cherries have found themselves fighting for survival at the wrong end of the standings, leading to suggestions that Howe's side had become stale under his leadership.
While the Englishman may only ever leave Bournemouth of his own accord, consideration will have to be given to making more alterations to his first XI and tactics in the future.
With that in mind, Sports Mole predicts how Howe may choose to line up at the start of next season, regardless of whether Bournemouth are in the top flight or Championship.
While Aaron Ramsdale has been linked with a move to a bigger club, the relatively-experienced goalkeeper may feel that he should continue his development at the Vitality Stadium, an opinion which is likely to be shared by his manager.
With Nathan Ake a likely departure, Steve Cook and Chris Mepham are a potential pairing in the middle of the backline, with Jack Stacey and long-term injury Lloyd Kelly in line to feature in the full-back areas.
Howe usually favours a system which includes wide players, whether that be in a 4-4-2 formation or with three in attack, but there is logic in the long-serving boss changing his thinking.
Bournemouth are strong in central midfield, providing Howe will the opportunity to use a diamond which includes Lewis Cook, Jefferson Lerma and Philip Billing.
With Ryan Fraser and Joshua King both potential departures, an effort could be made to sign former south coast resident Adam Lallana when he leaves Liverpool on a free transfer.
The England international is the perfect fit in the number 10 role, while he also possesses the versatility to feature on one of the flanks.
In attack, Callum Wilson is a certain starter providing that he stays at the club, although it appears unlikely that Dominic Solanke has a future with the Cherries.
Free-scoring Peterborough United forward Ivan Toney is an affordable option and one which fits Howe's usual philosophy.
Darren Plant
