Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe has dismissed criticism from Liverpool legend Graeme Souness.

Souness has accused Howe of being "a little bit naive" against the Premier League's big guns.

Howe said: "I respect everyone's opinion and I've got no problem with Graeme airing his views.

"For me, that opinion makes no difference. It's down to me, my coaching team and the players to prove those comments wrong.

"I've always done it my way and that's what I will continue to do. You have to be true to your beliefs, you can never have any doubts or be swayed by anyone else's comments or opinions.

"If you are, where do you go from there? Do you wait for the next comment or opinion before you change again?

"It has to be what we think is best from inside our camp, knowing what our strengths are and trying to get the best out of the players."

Meanwhile, Howe is delighted with the progress of Jack Simpson.

Howe told the Daily Echo: "In terms of his place in the squad, I think he feels more assured and part of the group.

“The other players see him as part of the group as well, which is important.

“You can be in a squad and train with players every day but you need to feel you can make an impact on the pitch, which is the all-important thing. That game was evidence for Jack that he can compete.

“You need to feel the belief from your team-mates and feel you are level and competing with them, which Jack certainly is.

“From my side I don't look at him differently to any other member of my squad. If he showed he was better than someone else, he would play.

“It is up to him to use the experiences he has to try to make the most of his talent."