Bournemouth boosted with duo returning to training ahead of Chelsea visit

Bournemouth manager Gary O’Neil is confident that both Jefferson Lerma and Marcus Tavernier will be fit for the visit to Chelsea next week.

They were absent for the game against Newcastle in midweek and there were concerns that they would not be able to return in time for the Chelsea game.

But manager Gary O’Neil says they have responded well to the rest and their recovery is on track.

The Bournemouth manager told the press: “Jefferson Lerma should be okay, we hope.

“His knee has been a little bit sore. We’re hopeful that he will be back in and around it in the next day or so.”

He added: “Tav is probably not as far forward as Jeff. But I’m still hopeful that we get them both. But more chances that we get Jeff.”

Bournemouth may have lost to Newcastle in the Carabao Cup but they are aware that Chelsea are without a win in their last five games before the World Cup break and they will have their chances at Stamford Bridge.

Graham Potter has injury issues of his own but there is no doubt that he will come under huge pressure if he is unable to get all three points against Bournemouth.

The Blues boss signed a long-term contract to replace Thomas Tuchel and even though he’s been backed by the board, they will not accept anything but three points to re-start the league campaign.