How the division's smallest club took a risk, backed their talented head coach, recruited smartly and refined their style

Iraola’s style of football was hugely influenced by former Leeds United boss Marcelo Bielsa, who he played under at Athletic Bilbao in Spain, but he’s put his own spin on things and his philosophy is largely unique.

An away clash at Bournemouth might not have been underlined as a major obstacle in Liverpool's pursuit of the Premier League title but Saturday's clash on the south coast suddenly looks anything but a relaxed trip to the seaside.

Elsewhere, third-placed Nottingham Forest host Brighton, hoping to bounce back from last week’s 5-0 thrashing at Bournemouth, while Tottenham look to halt their alarming slide at Brentford

PSV Eindhoven's Belgian forward Johan Bakayoko (centre) controls the ball in front of Liverpool's Italian forward Federico Chiesa (right) during the UEFA Champions League, league phase day 8, football match between PSV Eindhoven (NED) and Liverpool FC (ENG) at the the Philips Stadion, in Eindhoven, on January 29, 2025. (Photo: AFP)

They will want to stay within their own budget, with regards to transfer fees and salaries, but Bournemouth are a lot more competitive than people realise. They have managed to find really good players along the way anyway and it is why they are in the position they are this season.

For now, fans should recognise they are living through the best period in Bournemouth's history - and enjoy the ride.

After another masterful performance at the weekend, Bournemouth's stunning season is discussed on The Totally Football Show

The Reds are going up against two young players at the Vitality Stadium on Saturday that would make a massive difference to their backline

Grennan ‘25 sees the singer performing across 11 arenas throughout September, shortly after the release of his new album, Everywhere I Went Led Me To Where I Didn’t Want To Be, kicking off his tour in Bournemouth on September 3, before dates across the country including Glasgow, Aberdeen and Leeds.

They were among 60 travellers and four crew members on board the commercial flight that collided with a Black Hawk helicopter.