CHERRIES manager Eddie Howe is predicting a physical test from Crystal Palace in tomorrow's clash at Selhurst Park (3pm).

Both teams are without a win in the first two Premier League fixtures of the season.

Howe said: “I’m expecting a difficult game, like every game in the Premier League.

“We had two tight games against them last year, there was nothing between the sides in both games. They’ve got some good players and have recruited well so it will be interesting to see how they set up.

“We can expect a physical challenge. That’s one thing you know about Crystal Palace, both from an athletic perspective and a physical perspective, so it will be a tough game for us.”

The boss added: “I think every game in the Premier League is so tight. We found that last year and we’re certainly finding it this year. There’s nothing between the sides and one moment in the game can swing it either way.

“We’ve been on the wrong end of that in the two games we’ve had and I think they’ve both been games we could have won. We need to make sure we’re on the right end this time.”

Discussing matters on the injury front, Howe added: "In the main, everyone’s fit. Rhoys Wiggins, Baily Cargill and Corey Jordan are all out injured at the moment.

“Junior Stanislas is building himself up to full fitness. He got a good 60 minutes and one or two others who were carrying previous injuries came through the game against Morecambe well on Wednesday, so I’m quite pleased with how the squad is in terms of its physical shape.”