Tommy Elphick v Christian Benteke
Bournemouth’s biggest challenge on the opening day of the season will no doubt come from Aston Villa striker Christian Benteke, should the Belgian still be a Villain when the campaign begins. It will likely fall to their skipper Tommy Elphick to deal with the powerful forward, who enjoyed an unbelievable end to last season. Given Tim Sherwood’s side’s disappointing performance last year, the Cherries will earmark this game as one of the fixtures where three points are a must if they wish to stay up. If they can stop Benteke, they will have a fantastic chance to get their campaign off to the perfect start.
