Ake praised by Howe ahead of Huddersfield trip

AFC Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe praised summer acquisition Nathan Ake and highlighted that a perseverance with personal footballing philosophies is “common sense” as his side prepare to take on Huddersfield.

The Dutch Defender has been pivotal to the Cherries this season and scored a key goal against his former club Chelsea, in the 3-0 away victory at Stamford Bridge, last week.

“He’s been very important this season, I think Nathan has been a model of consistency, great character, great temperament, he trains very well every day, he’s got that ability and that mentality to want to be at his best, whether that’s 5-a side or a training drill.

“He’s been excellent for us especially in recent weeks, so I’m delighted with his contribution.”

The 22-year old Centre-Back struggled for starts at his former club Chelsea and had loan spells at Watford and Bournemouth, before signing for the Cherries for £20 million.

Meanwhile, Bournemouth’s opponents have lost their last five games, but it seems like Huddersfield Manager David Wagner is electing to stick to his “Gegenpress” philosophy despite the poor run of results.

Howe, who is also known for his free-flowing passing management style, endured a similar run of results towards the end of December and went seven games without a win in December, but the 40-year old and his team, seem to have dug their way out of that hole.

When asked if it’s difficult to stick to personal attacking instincts and beliefs, the former Burnley boss said, “No, for me it is common sense.

“If you have your beliefs in how the game should be played and you believe that, that way is successful and has been successful before, the only pressure you have to change is from the media.

“You have to be very strong mentally as a manager, you have to truly believe in what you are doing and how you prepare the team, but your players, more importantly, have to believe in that as well.”

Howe, also conveyed the importance of having “trust that your consistency in your work and consistency in your beliefs, means that you will get results.”

Bournemouth have won their last two games and will most likely fancy their chances against the 19th placed club, as they beat the Terriers 4-0 at the Vitality Stadium, despite going down to ten men.

Howe’s side are currently ninth place and are currently seven points above the relegation zone.

1200 Bournemouth fans will make the trip up North to support their side and Howe will certainly be looking for an important three points against Wagner’s side.