Bournemouth fitness key to success, says winger Matt Ritchie
Cherries continue to prove their doubters wrong despite injury crisis
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Your support makes all the difference.Bournemouth winger Matt Ritchie believes Eddie Howe’s squad are benefitting from being among the fittest teams in the Premier League.
The Cherries climbed out of the relegation zone after the 1-0 victory against Chelsea last weekend and have covered more ground than any other side in the division.
Under the guidance of Howe, the recently-promoted Championship champions have become characterised by their endeavour and raw power.
Despite suffering injuries to Sylvain Distin, Adam Federici, Lee Tomlin, Marc Pugh, Christian Atsu, Callum Wilson, Tom Elphick, Tyrone Mings and Max Gradel, they are keeping their head above the water.
“I think we have all really upped our fitness since last season,” Ritchie told the BBC.
“It is not that we were not fit last season because we were probably one of the fittest in the league, but you get that little bit more rest in the Premier League and I think it shows.
“We do not often look like we are getting outmuscled or bullied so that is a good sign.”
Midfielder Andrew Surman, formerly of Norwich City, has run a total of 183.54km; the furthest of any player in the entirety of the top flight.
Howe heaped praise on his players' shoulders at Stamford Bridge following one of the biggest victories in the club's history.
“Hopefully there are more moments like that ahead of us,” he said.
“That's what we're hoping for this season; using this as a springboard to produce more magic days.
“We've had quite a few set backs and disappointments and that's why the players deserve all the credit for this moment.
“It's a reward for all their hard work and dedication but we have more work to do.”
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