Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe admits he's a big fan of the busy Christmas programme.

Bournemouth have been hit by an injury crisis, a big factor in their record of just two wins in the last 13 league games.

They have had little time to rest since their Boxing Day draw at home to Arsenal as they return to action in Saturday's lunchtime kick-off at Brighton.

But Howe says: "It is difficult for the players physically.

"The players will be fatigued and when you're fatigued there is a lot higher injury risk so that would be my only question: are we creating a situation where players will get injured?

"But I've always said I love the Christmas schedule.

"I love the fact there are games. It's part of what we do here in England, the crowd love it so let's go and do it."