Ben Phillips, from Back of the Net Bournemouth podcast, says he is “happy with the slow improvements” the team are making in the Premier League and a top half finish should be the aim for Andoni Iraola’s side.

The Cherries, who finished 12th last season with a record-total of 48 points, registered their second win of this term convincingly against Southampton on Monday.

“I did expect the result because we have got the measure of Martin’s teams,” said Phillips on BBC Radio 5 Live. “Teams that play out from the back suit us.

“To build on where we were last season, so maybe 10th and 50 plus points, should be the aim for this season now. The quality of the Premier League is better this year so to break into Europe would be too much of a feat. I am just happy with slow improvements.

“You can tell we are going in the right direction on and off the pitch.”