Eddie Howe declared Bournemouth’s Premier League relegation scrap “alive” after an astonishing second-half fightback shocked Champions League-chasing Leicester.

Dominic Solanke ended his top-flight goal drought with a timely brace as the struggling Cherries dragged themselves back from the brink to move within three points of safety following a stunning 4-1 win.

Howe’s side appeared doomed following a limp first-half display in which they deservedly trailed to a 23rd goal of the season from the division’s leading scorer Jamie Vardy.

“We gave them a lifeline into the game with the penalty and then all of sudden very quickly you are 2-1 behind, but I was more disappointed with the reaction.

“I would say a big apology to the supporters because that was unacceptable for a Leicester team.

“You cannot do that and I have never been anywhere near that since I’ve been here, it was a huge disappointment.

“We lacked the spirit and attitude, especially when we went down to 10 men.”