BOSS Eddie Howe welcomed the publication of the new Premier League fixtures and then said he anticipated a “much stronger” division next season.

Cherries will open their campaign against 20-time top-flight champions Manchester United – led by new boss Jose Mourinho – on Saturday, August 13.

Howe's men also take on Europa League-bound West Ham and FA Cup finalists Crystal Palace in August – the former side in the first Premier League game at the Olympic Stadium – but must wait until December 17 before meeting rivals Southampton.

Cherries travel to Antonio Conte's Chelsea on Boxing Day and also face Swansea and Arsenal over the festive period, while a trip to Tottenham awaits on the Easter weekend.

The Dorset side are due to round off the season at reigning champions Leicester.

Reflecting on the release of the fixtures, Howe told the Daily Echo: “It is always exciting for everybody. It is a chance to see the early games, the festive games and the games at the end of the season.

“You tend to get a little picture of how your season may potentially unfold. We have been looking forward to them coming out. I remember it being an exciting time last year and I feel no different this year.

"Manchester United will be a tough start but I am mindful that every game in the Premier League is difficult. It is not lost on me the quality of teams we are going to play and the occasions we are going into.

“I think it is going to be a much tougher league next season. You only have to look at the calibre of managers and players coming into the Premier League. It has never been a more attractive league.

“We will have to improve and get the balance of the squad right. But I see no reason why we can’t be very competitive and look to put together a really good team.

“There are several challenges we will face. There is second-season syndrome and all the things that go with that.

“But there will be advantages as well. The players have experienced the Premier League and will feel like Premier League players. There will be pros and cons.”