SCOTT Parker is well aware of the challenge his Cherries side face when they visit Manchester City this afternoon – but it is a challenge he relishes, rather than fears.

Both Cherries and Parker are yet to taste victory – or avoid defeat – at the hands of Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City, with the Citizens currently enjoying an 11-game winning streak over the South Coast club.

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Since Cherries’ last played in the Premier League, City have reached a Champions League final, and this summer, they strengthened further with the addition of generational talent Erling Haaland.

When asked how to stop the Norwegian, Parker replied: “It'll be difficult, of course.

“He is a world class centre forward. We've seen it from afar, probably in Germany, and then we've seen it in the first game against West Ham.

“And the power and the pace that he possesses and the quality that he brings in terms of giving Manchester City a little bit more of a different dynamic.

“And yes, it's a big challenge ahead for us in terms of individually, defenders, in terms of the team, in terms of trying to stop that, but we'll give it our best shot at trying do that really, it's a good challenge to go and face.”

Parker then went on to talk about City as a whole, stating: “I don’t fear it. I realise it's difficult.

“I realise it's a big challenge. I don't fear it one bit. I'm looking forward to it. I'm looking forward to going there, for us, trying to assert ourselves in a way we can.

“I know that's going to look maybe different to how it can be in other games just through their far superiority on most games of football.

“Arguably the best coached team in world football.

“And the manager they have, probably a genius in that sense.

“Every aspect of the game is really nailed down and then added to that is excellent execution and quality and technical ability of the players as well.

“So, yeah, you're right up against it. Any team is when they go there.

“I keep saying it's a big challenge, but it's one we embrace. It's one which we looking forward to taking it on and see what we can get out of it.”

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