'Jokanovic has my full respect', says Howe

Howe takes his Bournemouth side to Craven Cottage on Saturday, looking to continue their excellent start to the current campaign, as they sit in sixth place in the table.

The 'Cherries' are 10 points better off than they were at this stage last season, and finally seem to be finding their feet among England's elite sides. 

In contrast, Fulham, who were promoted via the play-offs last season, have found life rather challenging this season, as they are currently in the relegation zone after defeat to fellow new-boys Cardiff City last weekend.

Yet Bournemouth boss Howe was in no mood to plump the ego of the Premier League strugglers, telling the media: "I have respect for Jokanovic, but not sympathy. I know he's an outstanding coach and you can see his work on the pitch with how his team plays. "

He continued: "They've got some very good players, a good way of playing and we know we'll have to be at the top of our game to win. I've got a lot of respect for their manager who led Watford to promotion. He's done the same with Fulham and that's not easy to do, with two different clubs. He has my full respect."

Howe proceeded to turn the focus to his own side, stating that they need to be alert and prepared in order to beat Fulham this weekend.

The Bournemouth boss asserted: ""This start to the season means everything because you're immersed in your work and this is your life. It has been a pleasant start for us, but I think that's all it is. We know how tough the Premier League is and how quickly football can change, so we're very much focused on the next match."

The 'Cherries' boss has been keen to continue driving his players hard in training, stating: "It's a place where we work hard, where I set high standards for the players and try and push them in a productive and positive way, so they reach their maximum levels."

Howe concluded: "I love being there, I love working with the players, their attitude to the work is second to none and it's an enjoyable place to be."