BLACKBURN boss Gary Bowyer said Cherries’ transfer investment had “paid dividends” for the Dean Court club.

Cherries made big-money moves for striker Callum Wilson and midfielder Andrew Surman in July and September, respectively.

Bowyer will this afternoon attempt to lead Rovers to a third Championship win over Cherries since Eddie Howe’s men returned to the second tier (3pm).

However, Bowyer is keenly aware of the tricky task ahead.

He told the Lancashire Telegraph: “Eddie’s done outstandingly well and I’ve got a lot of time for him and the football that Bournemouth play.

“They were able to build on their own expectation with the investment that they made in the summer and I think that’s paid dividends for them.

“I think Eddie spent more in the summer on one player than we’ve spent since I’ve been here so I think the ‘little old Bournemouth’ that people talk about is not exactly that now.

“We’re aware of the challenge that lies ahead but it’s one we’re looking forward to.

“We had a fabulous win there last season and we showed some good qualities at home against them this season so we know we’ve got the capabilities to win there.

“Bournemouth’s game is very much based on possession but it’s a case of what you do with it. And we’ve got to make sure when we have the ball, we pose challenges for Bournemouth.”

Cherries will make a late decision on whether striker Yann Kermorgant will be available. The Frenchman missed Wednesday’s loss at Nottingham Forest due to a family bereavement.

Harry Arter is in contention to return following suspension.