EDDIE Howe admitted the mystique of cup competitions had evaporated following Cherries' promotion to the Premier League.

But the Vitality Stadium boss insisted that the League Cup fourth-round trip to Liverpool presented his players with a "great challenge".

Cherries will aim to equal their best performance in the competition – which they achieved last season while a Championship side – with victory at Anfield tonight (7.45pm).

Asked if less hype had surrounded Cherries' progress in the League Cup this term, Howe told the Daily Echo: "I think it's different when you are in the Premier League.

"If we were in a lower league, this would be one of the best cup draws we could get and it would create huge excitement.

"The reality is that now we are facing these teams every week on a level playing field so it takes away the mystique to the cup competitions.

"But from my perspective, it's a great challenge to go there and progress.

"We always say that if you can ignite your season with a win in this type of competition then it can inspire huge confidence in the squad."

Cherries met Liverpool at the quarter-final stage last season having previously overcome West Brom 2-1 in Dorset.