Bournemouth boss Gary O'Neil says Dean Court will be key to staying up.

The 39-year-old was speaking after this week being announced as head coach on a permanent basis at Vitality Stadium.

Asked in an interview with afcbTV whether he had a message for the club's fans, O'Neil said: “I'm really grateful. As well as the players, they bought in to what we were trying to do as well.

“They stuck with the lads. I think I have spoken about it a lot but it's really important for me that they are with the boys.

“It makes a big difference when you are out there playing when the fans understand what they are trying to do – and they stick with you.

“They (the fans) did in some tough moments as well as some good ones.

“I am really pleased we got to go into the break off the back of two big wins, really pleased the fans enjoyed it and I appreciate their support of course.

“The support we get here at home is going to be huge for us in the next few months to help us stay in the league."

Cherries' next test comes on the road at Newcastle in the Carabao Cup on December 21.