Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe is a big fan of Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe.

Howe first witnessed Defoe's scoring skills 15 years ago when the then West Ham teen netted in 10 straight games during a loan spell with the Cherries.

He said: "Sunderland have won some key games when they've looked like they are in trouble and Jermain is key to that.

"He has the ability to score goals in tight games. Our key aim is to nullify him and keep him quiet. He is probably the best player I've played with.

"His movement is very good and his finishing was the first thing that struck me - his finishing is so unique, he takes chances early.

"He transformed our season from being promotion candidates to promotion candidates. He is a great lad and he lives for scoring goals and he can still do it at the highest level.

"We were interested in him in the summer but the move was never close unfortunately, but I admire him greatly as a player.

"Sunderland are in a similar position to ourselves so there is no way they would want to lose him."