Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe has said that he and his squad are aware of the importance of their clash with Southampton on Sunday afternoon.

While just 30 miles separate the two south coast sides, they are both locked on 21 points in the Premier League table and have an opportunity to strengthen their place in the top 10.

The two clubs do not have a storied rivalry due to competing in different divisions for much of their existence, but Howe feels that the competition "will only grow" between the clubs the longer they both remain in the top flight.

The 39-year-old told reporters: "We know the importance of this game for our fans and our league position. The more games we play against Southampton the more the rivalry will grow. It's something we're looking forward to.

"We're pleased with our home form, it's difficult to work out the recent differences between our home and away form. It was a nice moment to see us in the top half."

Bournemouth ran out 2-0 winners when the teams last met at the Vitality Stadium in March.