Howe laments injuries during City defeat

Cape Town - Eddie Howe said Bournemouth "worked incredibly hard" in their 2-0 loss to Manchester City on Monday night where a number of injuries ultimately cost his side.

Raheem Sterling had opened the scoring in the 29th minute at the Vitality Stadium before an own goal from Tyrone Mings after 69 minutes.

Howe had included injury doubts Simon Francis, Adam Smith and Charlie Daniels in his starting line-up, but it proved to a disastrous decision.

Captain Francis was withdrawn with a hamstring injury after 23 minutes, for Mings, as Daniels struggled with the pace of the game.

Jack Wilshere then added to the problems as he went off injured at half-time after damaging an ankle.

After the match, a disappointed Howe told Monday Night Football: "We gave our best. I thought Manchester City were very good. They kept the ball very well and we found it difficult to build any momentum and pressure.

"In terms of effort and commitment, our lads gave everything and obviously we were hampered by the injuries we received in the first half.

"Losing both players in one half of football is a big blow. When you lose your captain - and he's been really important to us for a number of years - it's a big moment in the game.

"Charlie Daniels was still feeling his knee and there were a few players in there who weren't playing at 100% fitness.

"To then lose a player of Jack's quality was a real blow but we reorganised and had a go. Ultimately they were too good."

The Cherries next face an important fixture against West Bromwhich Albion at The Hawthorns Stadium on February 25 that could prove decisive in staying clear of the relegation zone.

Kick off is at 17:00.