Huddersfield Town

The Cherries almost made the Play-Offs last season and have invested in their squad this summer, but Robins is looking for a repeat of last season’s home victory over the south coast side.

“When we played Bournemouth last year they were new to the division. They are a different proposition now,” Mark told htafc.com.

“They have an owner who is spending money – millions on the likes of Callum Wilson – which will have been helped by player sales. 

“Eddie (Howe) is methodical and an excellent coach. He tries to play football in the right way, so we’re in for a really good game tomorrow.”

Mark has a few injuries to contend with ahead of the game, as he explained:

“One or two players are doubtful; James Vaughan and Anthony Gerrard. They are progressing ok – I don’t think Vaughany will be too long, whereas Anthony might be a little bit longer. Oscar Gobern has a problem with his toe – he fractured it – and he is making inroads back to fitness. 

“Harry Bunn has had a hamstring problem but he’s back running on the training field and one or two of the younger players have a few niggles, but that’s it for the moment.” 

One difficult decision the Manager has to make is who to play in goal, with both Alex Smithies and summer recruit Joe Murphy impressing during pre-season.

“The good thing for us is we have two capable goalkeepers – they are very close and that is what you want, as they are pushing each other all the way. One will play tomorrow and one will play on Tuesday (at Chesterfield).” 

There has been a lot of speculation in the press surrounding midfielder Adam Clayton this week – something that Mark isn’t bothered by.

He explained: “Adam has trained today as normal – and did yesterday too. He’s our player. Speculation doesn’t affect me at all. We don’t do business in the public eye, but as is always the case we let people know if any deals are done. 

“We haven’t finished our recruitment yet – I would like to be able to bring in just one or two new faces to help us. We have a pathway for the young players, but we combine that with areas we need to strengthen. Things can change very quickly at this time of the season, as we have seen this week. I’m hopeful we can do some more business when the players that we want become available.”

One such incoming could be Republic of Ireland international defender Sean St Ledger – but only if the deal is right for Town.

“He has trained with us again today and we’re looking to see if we can do something with him over the next few days. He’s experienced – he’s an international player; he organises well and he’s been good around the place. The reason we wanted to have a look at him is he hasn’t played as much football as he should have done over the last 18 months through one or two injuries, so we have to ensure we can get enough football out of him on financial terms that are fair to the player and the Club.”