BOSS Eddie Howe thinks Cherries’ impressive recent run can give them “renewed belief” ahead of Sunday’s showdown with Arsenal.

Cherries have suffered just two defeats in their past 12 Premier League games – including a 2-0 reverse at the Emirates in December.

And since beating Cherries in North London, the Gunners’ title push has wobbled with six points garnered from a possible 15.

Howe said: “I don’t know whether that constitutes a dip in form and they have had some difficult fixtures.

“They are under pressure to win the league and their objectives are totally different to ours.

“I just think we’ve got to do what we do and try to do it to the very best of our ability.

“If we can get both aspects of our game to the highest level, we will have a chance. But we are going to need to be at the very highest level against one of the best teams in the country.

“I’d like to think maybe we will be slightly more confident with the run we’ve had and the importance of the fixtures we’ve been able to win.

“We can go into the game with renewed belief that we can compete against the very best sides.

“I think every weekend is pivotal. You don’t want to waste any games and this is a really good game for our football club and our supporters.

“We want to be competitive and try to win so it’s a game we’re really looking forward to.”