CHERRIES winger Ryan Christie believes that there is “definitely an edge” to games with Southampton ahead of his side travelling across the New Forest to visit St Mary’s.

Saints, like Cherries, are currently embroiled in a tight relegation battle, with the Hampshire outfit currently propping up the division.

Southampton fans have long down-played the notion of games against Cherries counting as a derby, Saints far more focused on games with rivals with Portsmouth.

Over the last decade, contrasting fortunes for all three clubs have seen Cherries and Saints share a division more often than Southampton have crossed paths with Pompey, who currently ply their trade in the third tier.

Christie certainly knows what a derby is, having played in 10 Old Firm matches whilst with Glasgow giants Celtic, games with Rangers one of the most famous examples of footballing rivalries.

The Scot also believes there to be an element of Cherries wanting revenge for the defeat Saints inflicted upon them back in the reverse fixture in October.

Asked for his thoughts on the rivalry, Christie told the Daily Echo: “Definitely an edge. "When you play in any kind of derby, I think you feel it a bit more from the fans.

“Obviously, I think every Bournemouth fan would love us to go there and get a win, so that's up to us.

“The atmosphere will be brilliant.

“It was brilliant here in the reverse fixture. I think we played well in that game and still got beat, so it'd be nice to go to their place to get a bit of revenge.

“They're fighting for their lives, same as everyone down this side of the table, so it's going to be a tough match.

“Add to that the fact that it's a bit of a derby and obviously a lot on the line with the games ticking down before the end of the season.

“So it's going to be a tough game, one we're still confident even after (West Ham).

“We’re going in to that confident. Hopefully we pick up a positive result and get back to winning ways.”
Whilst Cherries fans will be desperate for a victory on enemy territory, Christie will be reunited with a familiar face in the form of Stuart Armstrong.

The pair have played 26 times together over the years, first sharing a dressing room at Celtic before representing their country.

“Always kind of strange when you're playing against your mates,” Christie commented.

“t's always a weird feeling, but, be nice to see him, I'm sure.

“I'm sure there won't be much words shared while we're on the pitch, but I'll see him after.”