EDDIE Howe warned his Newcastle United players Vitality Stadium is a “difficult place to go”, as he prepares to face “very good manager” Andoni Iraola.

Howe is set to return to his old club tomorrow for just the second time, since leaving in August 2020.

His Newcastle side drew 1-1 with Cherries in September 2022.

The Magpies currently sit sixth in the Premier League table, with Cherries languishing in the relegation zone.

Howe has previously met with Iraola in Spain during his sabbatical after leaving Cherries, the two going head-to-head in a friendly last December at St James’s Park, Newcastle running out 2-1 winners.

Looking ahead to his visit to Dean Court tomorrow (5.30pm), Howe said: “I think Andoni is a very good manager.

“I’ve watched Bournemouth a lot in the build-up to this game. I think their set up is good.

“They’ve got good players. They’ve invested a lot of money in the summer in their squad.

“So I think we know we’re going to be in for a tough game.

“I’ve got a lot of experience at that stadium and the Vitality is a very difficult place to go.

“For us, we need to make sure we’ve recovered from Dortmund physically and mentally, go again and make sure we’re ready for a tough game.”

Last year turned into an emotional day for Howe at Vitality Stadium, as Cherries fans finally got to thank their former boss in person for the first time. Howe did a lap of honour after the game with applause and singing coming from all four sides of the ground.

Asked if he hopes this weekend will be less about him this time, Howe said: “I hope so. I hope the focus is always on the players, on our performance and how well we can approach the game.

“That is always my wish, it’s never about me. Our only focus is to try and win.”