Watch Eddie Howe press conference on Almiron, injuries & talking points after 1-0 win vs Everton
Speaking after our 1-0 victory over Everton, Eddie Howe praised our defensive performance, revealed the key to Almiron's success and offered an update on Joelinton's potential knee injury.
Despite a lacklustre second-half from an attacking point of view, the 44-year-old was 'delighted' with the way the whole team defended after we limited the Toffees to just one shot all game.
The ex-Bournemouth boss accepts it was not our best showing with the ball, but he was very pleased with the 'character and attitude' we showed to record our fifth clean sheet of the season and see out a hard fought win against a physical Everton side.
After another great game from Miguel Almiron, Howe was overjoyed with his 'spectacular' finish and revealed that his 'confidence' is the reason the Paraguayan has been on top form recently.
Joelinton - who was taken off for Joe Willock at half-time - is believed to have picked up a slight 'knock' to his knee but Howe does not anticipate this to be a serious concern, appearing hopeful he'll be fine for Sunday's trip to Spurs.
Here's everything Howe had to say when speaking to the press after the game:
Howe on the performance:
"It was a hard-fought win. I don’t think it was our best performance with the ball today, but certainly defensively, we were very good.
"It wasn't free-flowing football it was a really competitive game. A lot of fight in midfield. I'm delighted with the character and attitude we showed and how we defended as a team."
Howe on Almiron:
"Confidence is the main starting point. He has scored some spectacular goals in my time here, and today's was right up there. He's playing very well – with and without the ball."
"I'm very pleased for him on a personal level. The supporters love him and rightly so.”
Howe on Joelinton's withdrawal:
“He took a knock to his knee in a tackle. I think it’s just a knock at this stage, so no twist.
"I don’t think there’s any injury to the joint, but he was in pain and he couldn't continue, so fingers crossed he'll be OK.”
