Eddie Howe keen to hold on to Bournemouth's best players

Eddie Howe has said that he hopes to be able to hold on to Bournemouth's best players during the January transfer window.

Defender Steve Cook, midfielder Eunan O'Kane and winger Matt Ritchie have all been linked with moves away from the club in the next month.

The manager told the Daily Echo: "I have always maintained the stance that I am pleased when other clubs recognise our players. I think it is a sign that, as a team generally, you are performing well.

"You can't stop speculation. All you can do is say we are not a selling club now. We want to progress and move forward and, to do that, you need to keep your best players."

The team, who were promoted from League One at the end of last season, currently sit 15th in the Championship table.