Oct 17, 2026 10:59 PM

Fresh from Europa League success, Marco Rose faces key selection dilemmas to balance rotation. Below will show how defensive rotations and a revitalised midfield could help the Cherries stifle Sunderland’s counter-attacking threat.

AFC Bournemouth return to Premier League action against Sunderland tomorrow, with Marco Rose facing an important opportunity to build on their encouraging 3-0 Europa League victory over Sturm Graz.

Goalkeeper: Djordje Petrovic

Djordje Petrovic should retain his place after keeping a clean sheet against Sturm Graz. The Serbian goalkeeper will be keen to build on that performance, providing confidence and stability as Bournemouth look to secure another positive result.

Left-back: Adrien Truffert

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Adrien Truffert should start at left-back, providing energy and quality on the overlap. He got a deserved rest on Thursday, and will be fresh to deliver another strong performance tomorrow.

Centre-back: Antonio Silva

Antonio Silva should start as Bournemouth look to build defensive confidence following the professional display on Thursday. His composure in possession and ability to read the game could prove essential against Sunderland's attacking threats.

Centre-back: Bafodé Diakité

Bafodé Diakité looked good against Sturm Graz, making a convincing case to retain his place. His physicality, recovery pace and defensive aggression could help Cherries contain Brian Brobbey who should be back from injury tomorrow.

  IMAGO / Pro Sports Images    IMAGO / Pro Sports Images  

Right-back: James Hill

James Hill should start at right-back, allowing Adam Smith to rest after a demanding run of fixtures. With Smith unlikely to start three games in eight days, Hill's defensive awareness and versatility make him a sensible alternative.

Central midfield: Lewis Cook

Lewis Cook's inclusion would give Bournemouth greater control and composure in possession. His passing range and positional awareness can help dictate the tempo, while his experience alongside Adams will be needed against a pivot of Xhaka and Sadiki.

Central midfield: Tyler Adams

Tyler Adams should partner Cook to provide defensive protection and midfield intensity. His pressing and ability to break up opposition attacks would allow Bournemouth's creative players greater freedom while helping prevent Sunderland from exploiting transitions.

Attacking midfield: Ryan Christie

Ryan Christie could return to the starting XI after not starting against Sturm Graz. The Scot will be eager for minutes, and his relentless pressing, intelligent movement and energy could make him an important link between midfield and attack.

  IMAGO / Pro Sports Images    IMAGO / Pro Sports Images  

Left wing: Marcus Tavernier

Marcus Tavernier should start on the left, offering direct running, creativity and a willingness to work defensively, as Sunderland pose a big threat on the counter. Minutes should be managed for the 27 year old, with Kluivert and Amine Adli nearing full match fitness.

Right wing: Rayan

Rayan deserves a starting opportunity on the right, where his pace, dribbling and unpredictability can trouble Sunderland's defence. The Brazilians confidence will be sky high after another goal on Thursday, and it could be the start of a great run of form for the 20 year old. 

Striker: Evanilson

Evanilson should lead the line, providing movement, physical presence and a focal point for Bournemouth's attacking play. With 5 goal involvements already this season in all competitons, he is AFCB's in form attacker and will cause the Black Cats defence big issues tomorrow. 

  IMAGO / Colorsport    IMAGO / Colorsport  
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