Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe believes his side’s second season in the Premier League will be tough but insists his squad will rise to the challenge.

The Cherries enjoyed a successful first season in the Premier League, recording impressive victories over the likes of Chelsea and Manchester United, before comfortably assuring top-flight survival, eventually finishing in 16th place.

The south coast club have moved to strengthen their squad during the off-season, bringing in the likes of Lewis Cook and Jordan Ibe, but Howe is anticipating a tough second season in the top flight, as a number of clubs have done significant business in the transfer market.

He said: “I’m expecting it to be harder. The novelty value will have worn off from players.

The challenge is for the players to respond to the second season in a positive fashion.

“The quality of the league has gone up. With the money spent, and the players and managers that have been attracted to the league, we’ve improved and I think the other teams have as well.”

The 38-year-old knows his side will have to respond to the challenge that awaits them, starting with their opening game of the season against Manchester United at the Vitality Stadium on Sunday.

The Cherries won the corresponding fixture 2-1 last season and are available at 4.50 to achieve another victory on Sunday. The Red Devils are on offer at 1.85 and the draw is priced at 3.50.