Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe admits that he is facing the toughest period in charge of the club for several years.

Howe's Cherries are getting dragged into the relegation battle, with their most recent defeat against Brighton further complicating matters.

They have only one win in the past nine league matches.

They must start winning games if they want to avoid being in the relegation battle during the last few months of the season.

"It's been a tough year," said Howe to reporters.

"If I cast my mind back to last year, we started the season with injuries and a stretched squad.

"We battled and got through and achieved our aims throughout the season.

"But this early season has been probably the most difficult I have had in terms of resources. I have learned a lot throughout it and am looking forward to maybe a change of luck as we go into a new year."