Eddie Howe has challenged his Bournemouth players to create some history by guiding the club to their first semi-final appearance of a major competition.

The Cherries are seeking a place in the last four of the EFL Cup when they head to the home of Premier League champions Chelsea on Wednesday night.

Bournemouth are in the midst of a tough run, having failed to win any of their last six games, but Howe believes that his side will be well up for this latest test.

"Naturally our focus goes to the next game on Wednesday against Chelsea," he told reporters. "It is a really tough draw for us but we are looking to break fresh ground for the club.

"We've never been into a semi-final of a major cup competition and that is a great carrot for us. To try and achieve that would be fantastic so we go into this game desperately trying to win."

"During this busy period of games we are looking to utilise the squad and make sure everyone plays a part so potentially there is scope for changes. We've got a game very soon after against Manchester City away so a nice run of fixtures for us!"

Bournemouth have three points from their last six league matches and were thrashed 4-0 by Liverpool last time out.