CHILDHOOD Manchester United fan Ryan Christie shared how AFC Bournemouth are “desperate” to finish the season on a high, aiming to start the run-in with victory over the Red Devils this weekend.
Cherries are already on the cusp of Premier League survival, requiring just three points to mathematically confirm their spot in the top-flight for the 2024/25 season.
In fact, by the time Bournemouth take to the field to face Manchester United on Saturday (5.30pm) they could already be safe, as defeat for Luton away at reigning champions Manchester City would leave the Hatters unable to overhaul Cherries’ current points tally of 41.
But Christie and co. will not be resting on their laurels in their remaining seven games, with the Scot sharing his desire to end the campaign as strongly as possible.
🤒 Spoke to Ryan Christie after Saturday's defeat.
— Jack Tanner 🏴 (@EchoSportJack) April 8, 2024
He told me that it would have been easier to say who wasn't ill in the build-up to the game, saying #AFCB were down to the 'barebones' in training this week.
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The former Celtic man also believes that returning to Vitality Stadium after suffering defeat away at Luton Town last time out will be a boon for his side, pointing out Cherries’ improved home form in recent weeks.
He told the Daily Echo: “The last month or so where our home record's been very, very good, so we’re looking forward to being back at home.
“Always good when you play against the big teams, it’s always got a bit more.
“I think we're just desperate to finish the season as well as possible now. That starts (against Manchester United).”
Christie played the entire 90 minutes of the return fixture, when AFC Bournemouth produced one of the most famous performances in their history with a dominating 3-0 win away at Old Trafford.
29-year-old Christie’s playing career has seen him represent his country at a major tournament, play in numerous cup finals, and feature in multiple Old Firm derbies, but the midfielder ranks the win over Manchester United very highly.
“It's a big one to be fair,” Christie continued.
“I was a big Manchester United fan growing up – Sir Alex Ferguson, obviously.
“I always absolutely love playing there the last couple of years I've got the chance.
“So to win in the manner we did earlier in the season was nice.
“A lot's changed since then to be fair, so I’m sure it’ll be a different game come back Saturday, but looking forward to it.”
So far this campaign Christie has featured in all but one Premier League game for AFC Bournemouth.
Heading into the weekend, Cherries currently sit 12th in the Premier League table, with 41 points from 31 games.
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