Cherries: Harry backs Howe for a giant killing (From Bournemouth Echo)

Cherries: Harry backs Howe for a giant killing

7:00am Tuesday 15th January 2013 in Sport Exclusive By Neil Perrett

HARRY Redknapp is keen to see Eddie Howe’s class of 2013 seize a golden opportunity to write a new chapter in the Dean Court record books.

Howe’s men tonight host Premier League Wigan in an FA Cup third round replay bidding to claim only the club’s fourth top-flight scalp in the competition.

Redknapp was the last Cherries manager to achieve the feat when he masterminded a 2-0 win over Manchester United in 1984 – which remains one of the biggest shocks in cup history.

Cherries also lowered the colours of both Wolves and Spurs during the club’s best FA Cup run in 1957 before Manchester United eventually knocked them out in the sixth round.

Redknapp, who recently took the reins at QPR following a brief spell at Dean Court advising former boss Paul Groves, lifted the FA Cup in 2008 when he was in charge of Portsmouth – with Cherries goalkeeper David James featuring in Pompey’s win over Cardiff in the final at Wembley.

Cherries earned a second crack at Wigan after drawing 1-1 at the DW Stadium 10 days ago when an equaliser from Jordi Gomez cancelled out Eunan O’Kane’s stunning first-half opener.

Redknapp, previewing the tie in an exclusive interview with the Daily Echo, said: “Bournemouth have got a big chance because they are playing so well at the moment. It wasn’t a massive shock when they went to Wigan and drew.

“They are in great form and you knew Wigan would mess around with their team.

“I wouldn’t be surprised to see Bournemouth turn them over in the replay.

“A lot depends on what Roberto Martinez does with his team and that will be key.

“Wigan are a decent team and played well at Fulham on Saturday to get a good point.

“If he plays his best team, it will be difficult for Bournemouth because they pass the ball ever so well. But if he decides to make wholesale changes, I think Bournemouth will beat them.”

Cherries and the Latics will do battle for £67,500 in prize money and a trip to Conference outfit Macclesfield in the fourth round. Should the score be level after 90 minutes, the tie would be decided during extra-time or then penalties.