Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe: 'We didn't want Chelsea in EFL Cup'

Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe has admitted that he was looking to avoid playing Chelsea in the EFL Cup quarter-finals.

On Saturday evening, the Cherries host the Premier League champions at the Vitality Stadium, but on Thursday night, the two teams were paired together in the last eight of the League Cup.

Howe has spoken highly of counterpart Antonio Conte, but acknowledged that he would have sooner avoided travelling to West London in December.

The 39-year-old told reporters: "It's not the cup draw we wanted, but we can't complain or moan. It's a great challenge to take on Chelsea in the quarters.

"I've spoken to Antonio Conte. He's very passionate and knowledgeable. It's fascinating to talk football with him.

"Watford were good and Chelsea were good last weekend. Chelsea showed their strength and character to grind out a win."

Both teams head into Saturday's league clash having won their last two games in all competitions.